Urbanite

Waiting for Kindle 2.0

Thursday January 29, 2009 2:56 PM By Garett Sloane

By Garett Sloane

Amazon is creating a lot of chatter with its Kindle riddle.

The company is planning a news conference in the city Feb. 9 to introduce the next-generation e-book device.

The leaks, rumors, speculation and innuendo surrounding the new Kindle are enough to make even the notorious tease Apple blush.Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos will unveil the new device at the Morgan Library & Museum.

Any innovations for the Kindle 2.0 are just speculation at this point, but here are some of the features to expect:

Price

The old Kindle costs $359, but usually prices come down as products evolve. There is speculation that the new Kindle will retail for closer to $300.

Style

For sure, the next-generation Kindle should advance the sleekness. A picture on the blog Boy Genius allegedly shows the new Kindle, which appears less clunky than the old one.

Worked-out kinks

One complaint of the old Kindle was that readers were prone to accidentally hit the page forward and page back buttons. The new design should fix that.

Color screen

A source tells the Los Angeles Times that there will be color capabilities, but InformationWeek said the technology is not there yet.

Speed

Expect faster processing speeds thanks to a microchip upgrade.

Tags: amazon, kindle, amazon kindle, amazon kindle 2.0, amazon ceo jeff bezos, technology

OMG! City teachers alarmed as IM speak sneaks into students’ writing

Thursday January 29, 2009 1:42 PM By Pete Catapano

Principal Dr. Gregory Hodge works with students at the Frederick Douglass Academy in Harlem (photo by RJ Mickelson/amNY)

By Stephen J. Bronner

Special to amNewYork

R students getting bad writing habits in school ‘cuz of texting and instant messaging?

While text messaging and twittering may be easy ways to communicate, it’s leaving teens and young adults with a mess of misspellings, improper abbreviations and poor grammar in the classroom, city educators say.

Patrizia Fernandes, a seventh grade teacher at I.S. 230 in Jackson Heights, sees the use of texting shorthand in class firsthand. Some students will respond “IDK” (I don’t know) when Fernandes asks them a question, and she sees “OMG” (oh my God) used in their essays.

“It’s hard for kids to differentiate between essay language, IM language and proper oral speech between friends and adults,” said Fernandes, who teaches language arts. “It's almost becoming new language.”Gregory Hodge, principal of Frederick Douglass Academy in Harlem, agreed that electronic communications have developed a new language.

“The advent of new technology has created new challenges,” he said. Hodge’s students have adopted abbreviations and the short style of texts and instant messaging in their essays, including students applying to college, who felt 100 words were enough for a 300-word essay. However, he looks at the positives of new technology as well, and pointed out that students have greater access to information, making them savvier.

“It’s kind of exciting to watch,” Hodge said.

Most students denied using text or IM slang in their work, but John Sfiris, 20, of Queens, a student at Queensborough Community College, admitted to sometimes using "u" for "you and "r" for "are" but then fixing it immediately. "It's something subconscious," he said.

Others say they’ve done their best to keep the shorthand out of the classroom.

“The only time I write like that is with friends. If you’re in a rush you won’t realize (you made a mistake) until it’s over,” said Michael, a 14-year-old high school student who wouldn’t give his last name.

Caution, though, may go away under pressure, suggested David Humphries, a Queensborough Community College assistant professor of English. He said he'd see essays from students start out well but then a few pages in he'll see errors like "thru," "b/c," "BTW" and "nite."

"They're forming habits that pop through when they're in a rush," he said. "I do wonder how that translates into the work world."

A majority of teens engage in electronic communications, according to a Pew Research survey conducted last year.

Even though 60 percent of teens surveyed don’t see texts as writing, many acknowledge that the quick exchanges do impact their schoolwork. Half of the surveyed teens admitted they sometimes write in an informal style, not using proper capitalization and punctuation. Text slang like “LOL” managed to get into 38 percent of students’ work and a quarter of students even said they used emoticons in their writing.

David Crystal, a professor of linguistics at the United Kingdom’s University of Wales, Bangor, who writes on the English language and electronic communications, defends the “language” of texts and instant messaging and said he doesn’t hear about its effects on students’ work. “You’d have to be pretty dumb to not see the difference between texting style and essay style,” he said in an email. “Or, putting this another way, teachers who let kids think the difference doesn’t matter wouldn’t be doing their job.”

He actually makes the argument that communicating electronically helps students write better.

“Reading and writing improve with practice,” he said. “Texting provides that practice. As does IM, and other forms of Internet communication.”

Still, Crystal’s perceptions don’t seem to reflect those of local teachers. Fernandes is making a point of helping her students leave the shorthand and misspellings where they’re acceptable — on their phones.

“I make them correct themselves and rewrite so they know the difference,” she said. “It’s hard for them to break the habit.”

Ten common Internet abbreviations:

U You

C See

R - Are

IDK - I don’t know

OMG - Oh my god

BRB - Be right back

BTW - By the way

BFF - Best friends forever

LOL - Laughing out loud

JK - Just kidding

Tags: cellphone, text messaging, high school, technology, education

Giants' Jacobs: Plaxico saga cost us championship

Thursday January 29, 2009 11:54 AM By Ryan Chatelain

If Plaxico Burress didn’t accidentally shoot himself, the Giants would be bathing in champagne Sunday while celebrating back-to-back Super Bowl championships, star running back Brandon Jacobs said.

“If we have Plax on our team, we go 15-1, and we win the Super Bowl,” Jacobs said. “I'm not afraid to say that, and I'll say it to anybody on any team.”

Speaking to reporters Thursday in Tampa, Fla., where the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona Cardinals will compete in Super Bowl XLIII, Jacobs said the team’s chemistry changed with Burress gone.

“We had a different identity with him, and we didn't have enough time to change our identity to be effective at what we wanted to do.”

Burress was arrested in November after he shot himself in the leg while at a Manhattan nightclub. He faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted of criminal gun possession. Days after the incident, the Giants suspended Burress for the rest of the season.Big Blue had a 9-1 record with their star receiver in the lineup, but was 3-4, including a divisional playoff loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, without him.

But Jacobs insisted he hopes Burress will return to the Giants in 2009 and that he had no feelings toward his teammate.

“A lot of people don’t know anything about what happens or how targeted we are,” Jacobs said. “I'm not going to blame him from protecting himself, but in the end he harmed himself.”

The Giants wouldn’t comment on Jacobs’ remarks Thursday.

Tags: giants, plaxico burress, brandon jacobs

City collects $9M from the Philippines

Thursday January 29, 2009 11:23 AM By Jason Fink

The Philippines has agreed to pay $9 million in back taxes and interest to the city for a government-owned building on Fifth Avenue.

Countries are exempt from taxes for diplomatic missions but this building houses a bank, an office for Philippine Airlines and a restaurant. The payment ended an appeal of a lawsuit in which the city was awarded $10.9 million in taxes and interest.

“It is only fair that foreign government owned properties used for non-exempt purposes pay their fair share of property taxes,” Mayor Michael Bloomberg said.

-Jason Fink

Tags: city hall dispatch

amNewYork letters to the editor

Thursday January 29, 2009 11:12 AM By Sara Baumberger

Critic’s comment violates equal opportunity act

Re “Mrs. O’s fashion critic slammed,” Jan. 29: Amnau Eele’s comment about Michelle Obama not hiring a black designer, the last time I checked, hiring someone based on race is a violation of the equal opportunity act.

— Pattie Spuma, Bayonne, N.J.

Government can close America’s class gap

We have to get away from the Reaganite mantra that taxes are bad and “government is the problem.” Not the solution! In our daily lives we know we have to pay for the things we want. Well, taxes are what we pay to get the things we need from government. It is the cost of living in a democratic society. What is wrong now is that the disparity in the distribution of wealth between the richest and the poorest is the greatest it has ever been! We have to change that, and a fair and equitable tax policy is the answer. We can’t live on our national credit card anymore.

— Gerrie Blum, Manhattan

Obama’s promises broken already

It’s becoming clearer every day that our new president has no intention of cooperating with the Republicans and putting an end to “politics as usual,” as he promised in his campaign and inauguration. His bipartisan meetings so far are for show only, and his stimulus package is a typical Washington pork party. The “change” we were promised is nothing more than which party gets to hold the strings.

— Michael Chimenti, Oakland Gardens

Tags: letters to the editor

Fulton Street could be built with stimulus help

Thursday January 29, 2009 10:29 AM By Marlene Naanes

MTA officials said Thursday there is a “strong likelihood” the Fulton Street Transit Center will be built close to its original design with federal infrastructure stimulus package funds.

The transit agency could receive between $1.5 billion and $2 billion—including $497 million for the Fulton Street hub—from the president’s stimulus package bill, which has passed the House and is awaiting Senate approval, said MTA Executive Director Elliot Sander.

The glass transit hub may even include a domed top, which had been off the drawing board since soaring construction costs threatened the entire above-ground structure, Sander said.

The underground portion of the downtown transit center is under way and will ease transfers between 12 subway lines.

(Marlene Naanes/renderings courtesy MTA)

Tags: transit

Throwback Thursday: Afternoon fun on PIX from 1979

Thursday January 29, 2009 9:18 AM By Rolando Pujol

Via robatsea2008 on YouTube

Here's a great commercial break shown during a presentation of "The Magic Garden" on WPIX. The old-school treats include an ad for mail-order Disney children's books (complete with complimentary plastic Mickey bookholder!) and a commercial for Franken Berry and Count Chocula cereals. There's also a nice long ad for "The Tom & Jerry Hour," shown at 4 p.m., narrated by longtime station announcer Ralph Lowenstein.

Classic stuff. Rewind to 1979 below.

-- Rolando Pujol

Tags: throwback thursday, wpix, magic garden, franken berry, count chocula, television, tom & jerry hour, nostalgia, old school

Dining deals and goings-on

Thursday January 29, 2009 9:16 AM By Lucy Blatter

By Emily Mathis

Special to amNewYork

Have a panini with your vino, every monday: Vero Wine Bar in midtown is offering a free gourmet panini with the purchase of a glass of wine, beer or a cocktail, ranging from $9-$12 on Mondays. Vero Wine Bar, 1004 Second Avenue 212-935-3530

Oh the delicacy and despair: In May, Chicago lifted a two-year ban on the controversial food made of duck or goose liver. On Wednesday, February 4, a two-hour talk at the Astor Center will discuss the ethical and culinary issues of the food with the owner of D’Artagnan food and a member of the Humane Society. Begins at 6:30 and costs $25. Astor Center, 399 Lafayette St. 212-674-7501

The Hog Pit has left the Meatpacking district and moved to the Flatiron neighborhood. The down-home BBQ joint continues to serve its authentic southern fare (37B West 26th Street, btwn Sixth & Broadway)

Tags: hog pit, vero, astor center, foie gras, food

Viral video: Smarty pants dance

Thursday January 29, 2009 8:17 AM By Sean Joseph

This toddler knows her U.S. geography better than a lot of adults, and she’ll rub it in your face with her “Smarty Pants Dance.”

Tags: viral video, television

LES store knows hose

Thursday January 29, 2009 7:19 AM By Emily Ngo

(Curtis Dann-Messier)

Ideal Hosiery, 339 Grand St. on the Lower East Side, is a throwback building. Located in the “Bargain District” of New York, it is a forgotten store front far from easy subway access. The peeling paint, the dusty wares, invite further exploration. The facade asks more questions than it answers. At least we will know where to go when we need to buy sheer stockings in bulk.

(The store has been around for at least 50 years, an employee informs us after first asking "What's it matter?")

— Curtis Dann-Messier

Tags: lower east side, shopping, manhattan

Starbucks announces more closures, layoffs

Wednesday January 28, 2009 1:42 PM By Marlene Naanes

By Marlene Naanes

Starbucks will shutter 300 more stores and lay off about 6,700 employees this year, according to a memo from the coffee company’s CEO, who cited the deteriorating economy.

The company said New York stores will be impacted, but it was still unclear yesterday how many of the approximately 188 franchises in the city could close.

“These decisions have been made to ensure the company is leaner and prepared to endure a worsening economic climate,” said Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz.The memo said Starbucks is shutting 200 underperforming stores in the United States, this on top of the 600 already slated to close. A final list of impacted stores will be determined by September.

The announcement came on the heels that its first-quarter profits dropped 69 percent with sales continuing to tank, according to the Associated Press. MarketWatch reported that Starbucks’ problems “have been most acute” in California and Florida, while Northeastern stores were operating at higher than normal demand.

The coffee company is also scaling back its plans to open stores, announcing yesterday that it will only open 140 new U.S. outposts compared to previous estimates of 200, according to the AP.

Schultz said he hopes to relocate store employees, which the company largely did during its last cuts. Others will receive severance packages, the memo said.

Tags: starbucks, coffee, economy, layoff

Restaurants to patrons: Let's make a deal

Wednesday January 28, 2009 1:00 PM By Lucy Blatter

Eleven Madison Park and other upscale restaurants are making prix-fixes cheaper.

By Stefanie Arck

Special to amNewYork

Being more fiscally prudent does not necessarily mean you need to stop dining out in 2009. Thanks to some recession-friendly deals by many of the city’s top restaurants, the tough economy translates into dining offers you can’t refuse.

Even top spots such as Tabla and Eleven Madison Park are trying to increase sales with real deals. Katy Leibold, public relations and marketing manager of Union Square Hospitality Group, which owns the two restaurants, explained that the drop is predominantly due to their banking clientele who don’t entertain like they used to. Both restaurants are tenants in the MetLife building near Madison Square Park, with financial companies such as Credit Suisse.

To keep sales steady, Tabla will continue its Restaurant Week lunch deal year-round, both in its more formal dining room and downstairs Bread Bar.

And while Eleven Madison Park had been offering a two-course lunch for $38, they recently reduced the cost of this special by $10.

“In these times,” says Leibold, “we’re looking to add more value and hospitality to our guests.”

Laura Shea, co-owner of Applewood Restaurant in Park Slope, says she has also seen a revenue drop — about 11% — since last quarter.

“We see the same people and they’re spending less; getting a glass of wine instead of a bottle, an appetizer instead of entree, and lots of sharing.”

So to ensure customers return, she dropped the price of the $55 dinner menu to $45, and decreased the wine pairing by $5 to $20.

The price decrease was “a necessity — what [we] can do for people who have already shown an allegiance to us.”

Megu, a high-end Japanese restaurant with a location in TriBeCa and one in midtown, introduced a three-course, $55 dinner menu since seeing a 10% drop in business since last year.

The prix-fixe was introduced in November for those who can’t afford the more extravagant seven-course, $125 tasting menu.

Hiro Nishida, president of Megu, says it was “a direct response to the customer’s demand for a more budget-friendly tasting course in light of the current recession.”Even top spots such as Tabla and Eleven Madison Park are trying to increase sales with real deals. Katy Leibold, public relations and marketing manager of Union Square Hospitality Group, which owns the two restaurants, explained that the drop is predominantly due to their banking clientele who don’t entertain like they used to. Both restaurants are tenants in the MetLife building near Madison Square Park, with financial companies such as Credit Suisse.

To keep sales steady, Tabla will continue its Restaurant Week lunch deal year-round, both in its more formal dining room and downstairs Bread Bar.

And while Eleven Madison Park had been offering a two-course lunch for $38, they recently reduced the cost of this special by $10.

“In these times,” says Leibold, “we’re looking to add more value and hospitality to our guests.”

Laura Shea, co-owner of Applewood Restaurant in Park Slope, says she has also seen a revenue drop — about 11% — since last quarter.

“We see the same people and they’re spending less; getting a glass of wine instead of a bottle, an appetizer instead of entree, and lots of sharing.”

So to ensure customers return, she dropped the price of the $55 dinner menu to $45, and decreased the wine pairing by $5 to $20.

The price decrease was “a necessity — what [we] can do for people who have already shown an allegiance to us.”

Megu, a high-end Japanese restaurant with a location in TriBeCa and one in midtown, introduced a three-course, $55 dinner menu since seeing a 10% drop in business since last year.

The prix-fixe was introduced in November for those who can’t afford the more extravagant seven-course, $125 tasting menu.

Hiro Nishida, president of Megu, says it was “a direct response to the customer’s demand for a more budget-friendly tasting course in light of the current recession.”

Tags: eleven madison park, tabla, recession, megu, recession specials

amNewYork letters to the editor

Wednesday January 28, 2009 11:28 AM By Sara Baumberger

Article sheds light on neighbor dog’s behavior

Re “The tail doesn’t always tell,” Jan. 28: My 10-year-old daughter recently got bit by a neighbor’s dog in our elevator, when she bent down to pet him. We see this dog all the time, so we were clueless why it happened. The information you gave really shed light on some possible reasons. As a dog owner myself, I always appreciate learning more.

— Enid Stoller, Manhattan

Conversation critical to Mideast peace

Unless Ambassador Susan Rice can pull off an Obama-driven miracle, it looks as though the Israeli Defense Force has its work cut out. The word from Syrian President Assad sounds ominous ... that Israel give up the Golan Heights and withdraw to the 1967 boundaries. On the other hand, the willingness of all parties concerned to talk is a hopeful sign. I believe President Obama is on the right track by using direct diplomacy in lieu of warlike threats.

— Herb Stark, Massapequa

Police must spend time fighting crime

Re “Transit crooks snatch phones,” Jan. 27: I expect that crime will continue to rise since Commissioner Ray Kelly spends his time promoting himself as the counterterrorism czar rather than fighting crime. The 76 police cars racing around the city, lights flashing and sirens blaring, going nowhere, but supposed to “scare off” terrorists in a “surge” operation, could be better deployed fighting crime. But I’m only a private citizen — what do I know?

— John Ost, Manhattan

Tags: letters to the editor

Astroland owners donate Rocket to city

Wednesday January 28, 2009 10:23 AM By Ryan Chatelain

(Photo by Tiffany L. Clark)

By Ryan Chatelain

Astroland’s run at Coney Island may be over, but the iconic amusement park’s trademark symbol will live on.

Carol Hill Albert and Jerome Albert, Astroland’s owners, donated the park’s 71-foot-long Rocket to the city Wednesday. The Rocket, which simulated a space voyage, was the first ride to arrive at the park when it opened in 1962.

It continued to operate as a ride through the 1970s and has most recently sat atop a food stand.

“It is especially fitting that this Rocket, which was the first to arrive will be the last item to leave Astroland Park,” Carol Hill Albert said yesterday at a news conference at the New York Aquarium.The Alberts closed the park for good last summer after they couldn’t reach a lease agreement with Thor Equities, which purchased the 3-acre property in November 2006. Both Thor and the city have competing plans to bring a new amusement park to Coney Island.

While the Alberts had the other rides removed from their property, the future of the Rocket remained unclear. Coney Island historian Charles Denson, fearing an unsold Rocket could be sold for scrap, spearheaded a campaign to preserve it, preferably at Coney Island.

City officials said the Rocket will be a centerpiece of a revitalized amusement district. The Bloomberg administration is seeking approval for a 19-block rezoning aimed at turning Coney Island into a year-round entertainment destination.

“The Astroland Rocket is a quintessential part of Coney Island’s history that serves as a unifying link between its fabled past and its future,” said Seth Pinsky, president of the city’s Economic Development Corp. “The Rocket will now join the Cyclone, the Wonder Wheel and the Parachute Jump as permanent symbols of Coney Island.”

Tags: coney island

Viral video: Bassist falls flat

Wednesday January 28, 2009 8:17 AM By Sean Joseph

This bassist tries to jump on his amp at the beginning of a music video and ends up on the ground.

Tags: viral video, television, music

'Real World: Brooklyn' roomie strips down

Wednesday January 28, 2009 7:20 AM By Julie Gordon

Scott Herman of "The Real World: Brooklyn," center, stars in Baskit Underwear's spring campaign.

By Julie Gordon

It only took a short time living in New York for "The Real World: Brooklyn's" Scott Herman to drop his drawers.

New Hampshire native Scott, 23, — whose abs were actually named the best in the East Coast by Men's Health magazine — is the new face (and, er, body) of Baskit Underwear's "Pure" organic cotton line.

The underwear, $21 to $24.99, is available starting Feb. 3 in jock, bikini brief, low-rise trunk and boxer style.

Tags: real world, real world: brooklyn, scott herman, entertainment

Store owners squeezed out of Flatbush Avenue

Tuesday January 27, 2009 2:40 PM By Garett Sloane

About 20 out of 100 storefronts are vacant in the North Flatbush Business Improvement District. (Photos: RJ Mickelson/ amNY)

By Danielle Sonnenberg

Special to amNewYork

Alex Cohen says he knows which way the wind is blowing down Flatbush Avenue.

He feels it from his small shop, Professional Shoe Repair — that same pressure that knocked out a number of small business owners is rapping at his store.

It’s not just the dire economy, an older foe also remains: His landlord wants him out.

“They just came and said we don’t want you here anymore,” he said, but he didn’t accept a buyout offer on his lease, which has three years left. He pays about $5,000 a month and figures the property owner wants about $6,000 for the 800-square-foot space.

Cohen is holding on where as a number of other entrepreneurs on his block have given up or just failed: Mailboxes of Parks Slope, Video Edge, Accentiques Antiques, Nouveau Décor, Harriet's Alter Ego. All gone.

“It's disturbing, we do have a fair number of vacancies, about 20 out of 100 storefronts,” said Regina Cahill, president of the North Flatbush Avenue Business Improvement District, which runs from Atlantic Avenue to Plaza Street on Flatbush Avenue in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn.

T-Mobile moved into 304 Flatbush Ave., the space once occupied by Video Edge.

As the economy has worsened, landlords in some areas of the city are showing a lot more flexibility with struggling tenants, but the trend does not appear to have caught on here.

Property owners in the area are seeing potential for bigger bucks from bigger names. T-Mobile took over Video Edge’s space at 304 Flatbush Ave. and Verizon moved into Accentiques Antiques location at 337 Flatbush Ave. a few months ago.

“This is about dollars and cents, let’s not make it more complicated,” said Faith Hope Consolo, head of the retail real estate division at Prudential Douglas Elliman. “I think everyone is searching for new, edgy, more financially stable businesses.”

Tony Atterbury, a broker with Slope Heights Realty, represents the space once occupied by Nouveau Décor.

He’s looking for a tenant with a history of steady business and an “ability to demonstrate his financial capability to pay rent.”

Rents in the area range from about $85 to $125 a square foot, according to Prudential Douglas Elliman. In some of the most desirable parts of Brooklyn, retail rents can go as high as $250 per square foot.

The small shops will likely give way to big chains, a gentrification process many corners of the city have experienced for years.

“Expect to see more restaurants like Le Pain Quotidien and Pret A Manger,” Hope Consolo said.

Some welcome the potential for a new retail mix on this stretch of Flatbush Avenue.

“It's all positive compared to what it used to be- a depressed downtown urban area,” said Henry Rosa, a landlord and owner of Triangle Sports, a sporting goods store.

For some longtime residents, such as Joan Erskine, a psychotherapist who has lived in the neighborhood for more than 30 years, it’s an ill wind that is knocking out the little shops.

“It’s the thing that most breaks my heart,” she said.

Alex Cohen, owner of Professional Shoe Repair, is feeling

the pressure to vacate his store at 341 Flatbush Ave.

Tags: north flatbush avenue, prospect heights, stores, retail, gentrification, landlords, real estate, mailboxes of parks slope, video edge, accentiques antiques, nouveau dã©cor, harriet's alter ego, pushy landlords, small businesses, neighborhoods, economy, brooklyn

Paterson getting hammered over Senate debacle

Tuesday January 27, 2009 2:08 PM By Jason Fink

Gov. David Paterson. AP photo

By Jason Fink

If Gov. David Paterson ever had a honeymoon, it is now surely over.

After a series of missteps over the selection of the next senator that included anonymous and contradictory leaks about Caroline Kennedy, public wavering over the choice and a confusing and secretive process, Paterson has come under withering attack.

“We saw an unseemly spectacle of the selection of a U.S. senator,” said state Sen. Dean Skelos (R-Rockville Centre), who accused Paterson of not being truthful, citing the Kennedy debacle and Paterson sending conflicting signals to state pols over the budget and a property tax bill. “I'm not going to call him Pinocchio but . . . "

At a news conference in Albany today, the governor was hammered by reporters over his denial about the Kennedy leak.

He acknowledged “confusing the process” in the days before he settled on Kirsten Gillibrand for the senate.

“I would have acted differently,” he said. “There have been several rumors, negative characterizations, malicious remarks made about people . . . including myself and I condemn all of the rumors.”When he came into office in March, Paterson instantly became tabloid fodder when he admitted extramarital affairs and youthful drug use. Last month, he unveiled a budget proposal that included 137 new or increased taxes and fees.

But he weathered those storms, coming in for the harshest treatment only after the senate seat saga.

“In an era that that’s supposed to be about openness, to see the governor of New York do a worse job of selecting a senator than Blago is hilarious,” said Kevin Williams, 36, of Manhattan, referring to Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich, who is accused of trying to sell an open senate seat.

Craig Tobias, 52, of Kew Gardens, called the process “self-serving and disingenuous.”

Pinocchio is what The New York Post called Paterson today, running a photo of him with a long cartoon nose. In an editorial, the Post even pined for the return of Paterson’s successor, Eliot Spitzer, who resigned in disgrace over a prostitution scandal.

Helen Desfosses, a professor of public policy at SUNY Albany, said the resignation in October of Paterson’s chief of staff, Charles O’Byrne, over failure to pay income taxes, created a leadership vacuum among aides that led to infighting and leaks.

“Paterson has been all drama,” she said.

Still, he has almost two full years until the election and she predicted he would recover.

“In politics one day you’re a hero and one day you’re not,” she said. “Just a few months ago he had very high approval ratings.”

(Newsday contributed to this story)

Tags: politics

Investors rush to own piece of Yankee Stadium

Tuesday January 27, 2009 1:31 PM By Garett Sloane

The Yankees sold out $259 million in tax-free bonds yesterday to pay for their new stadium, according to Goldman Sachs, the underwriters of the sale. Investors snapped up $192 million worth of the 40-year bonds that offered 7 percent interest. The rest of the bonds had varying rates of maturity and interest, but sold just as well. “Who doesn’t want to own a piece of Yankee Stadium,” said Tom Doe of Municipal Market Advisors.

Tags: yankees, yankee stadium, bonds, goldman sachs, municipal market advisors, tax-free bonds, economy, wall street

What's in Season: Mushrooms

Tuesday January 27, 2009 1:11 PM By Lucy Blatter

By Ben Muessig

Special to amNewYork

The chilly months are a great time for fungi. This week, stock up on a medley of mushrooms that offers a diverse array of flavors.

“We have all kinds of mushrooms that are really good right now,” said Alok Subedi of John D. Madura Farms. He recommends sauteing fresh mushrooms as a side or serving them in a homemade tomato sauce.One of the more popular varieties at Subedi’s Pine Island, N.Y., farm are cremini mushrooms — a small, coffee-colored variety that are actually baby portobellos.

These are the perfect alternative to milder button mushrooms, and can add a rich taste to salads, garnishes and sides.

Before plating raw creminis, douse them in lemon juice or vinegar to keep them from turning brown.

When cremini mushrooms mature, they grow into giant portobellos, whose meaty caps are a great entree. Serve them roasted, grilled or sauteed for a low-calorie, high-vitamin dish that is fat- and cholesterol- free.

A more delicate variety is the oyster mushroom, which is considered a gourmet confection throughout much of the world.

Most popular in Asia, these flat-topped mushrooms earned their name for their distinctive cap — said to resemble the prized bivalve in appearance and flavor.

Oyster mushrooms have a sweet flavor and a soft texture perfect for stir-fries and soups.

Tags: mushrooms, farmer's markets

Give snacks a healthy kick

Tuesday January 27, 2009 1:04 PM By Lucy Blatter

By Lucy Cohen Blatter

For many of us, Super Bowl Sunday is as much about the food as it is about the game. While calorie bombs such as nachos, chicken wings and meat heros are tradition, watching the game doesn’t have to wreak havoc on your waistline.On Super Bowl Sunday, like the rest of the year, it’s all about moderation, and filling up on healthy foods.

“You can have your indulgences, just try to fill up on the good stuff,” said Del Monte’s resident nutritionist and dietitian, Laura Molseed Ali.

Adding low-sodium canned corn to chili and bean dips and more vegetables to pizza are easy ways to up the nutritional value of problem foods, Ali said.

Also, step away from the buffet table. “Do a survey of the table and graze the space. Otherwise you’re more likely to munch and pick at the table mindlessly, without even knowing you’re doing it,” said Nancy S. Hughes, author of the “1,500-Calorie-a-Day Cookbook.”

“The best thing to do before going to a party is to eat something, so you’re not ravenous when you get there,” Hughes said. “Have something small and a glass of water before you go.”

Matt Goulding, Men’s Health’s food and nutrition editor and co-author of “Eat This, Not That!,” recommends starting with a bowl of three-bean chili and a beer. This way you start the festivities satisfied, not ravenous.

Goulding pointed to some foods to always steer clear of: store-bought guacamole is. “There’s a huge business of guacamoles that have almost zero avocado in them. They are high in oils and contain strange carbohydrate fillers.”

Italian combo heros should also be avoided. “They usually come with salami, capicola, mortadella, bologna and provolone cheese. That’s nearly a day’s worth of sodium.”

Goulding said substituting them with almost any other kind of sub saves calories, fat and sodium.

The only exception to that rule: tuna. “Tuna and salad are great things by themselves, but tuna salad is not,” he said.

Recipes:

Men's Health's 3-Bean Chili

YOU WILL NEED:

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, diced

1 pound lean ground turkey breast

1 14 1/2 -oz can diced tomatoes with jalapenos

1 10-1/2 oz can chickpeas, drained

1 10-1/2 oz can black beans, drained

1 10-1/2 oz can kidney beans, drained

1 10-1/2 oz can low-sodium chicken broth

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon cumin

1/8 teaspoon cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon cayenne

HOW TO MAKE IT:

In a large pot, heat the oil on medium-low. Add the onion and saute until soft (about 3 to 5 minutes). Add the turkey and brown it (about 5 minutes). Add the remaining ingredients. Stir and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

Del Monte's Fiesta Corn and Black Bean Toss

SERVES 4-6 PREP 10 min.

Ingredients:

1 can (15 ¼ oz.) DEL MONTE® 50% Less Salt Whole Kernel Corn, drained

1 can (15oz.) black beans, rinsed and drained

½ cup green onions, sliced

1 can (14 ½ oz.) DEL MONTE Petite Cut Diced Tomatoes with Zesty Jalapenos, drained

2 Tbsp. oil

½ tsp. ground cumin (optional)

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients in medium bowl.

2. Toss. Garnish with cilantro and serve with squeeze of lime juice, if desired.

Tags: super bowl, healthy food

Term limits law under review by the feds

Tuesday January 27, 2009 12:10 PM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

The city’s controversial term limits extension, which cleared the way for Mayor Michael Bloomberg and others to run for a third term, is now in the federal government’s hands.

The Justice Department has until the middle of March to decide whether the law — which overturned two public referenda limiting elected officials to two terms in office — violated the 1965 Voting Rights Act by discriminating against minority voters.

“This rushed and blatantly anti-democratic measure constitutes a pathetic, perverse and outrageous disenfranchisement of voters (including many minority voters),” New York Civil Rights Coalition’s executive director, Michael Meyers, wrote to the Justice Department.

The city, however, cites “diverse council member support for the law,” noting that 17 of 25 minority council members voted in favor of the extension. “Minority voters . . . will continue to enjoy the same opportunities to elect their preferred candidates,” city Corporation Counsel Michael Cardozo wrote to the Justice Department.

Three counties in New York - the Bronx, Brooklyn and Manhattan - are subject to a provision of the Voting Rights Act that requires the federal government to approve any changes law concerning elections.

And while New Yorkers may be opposed to the term limits extension, it seems they are still supportive of the man behind the measure.

A Quinnipiac University poll released yesterday show that Bloomberg has a 69 percent approval rating.

Some 56 percent of those polled also voiced disapproval of the term limits extension.

Tags: city hall dispatch

Viral video: Videogame addiction

Tuesday January 27, 2009 10:13 AM By Sean Joseph

See what pathetic feats this gamer resorts to when the batteries in his controller die.

Tags: videogames, television, viral video

Blago's media blitz reveals a hero in his own minds, say experts

Tuesday January 27, 2009 5:55 AM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

Embattled Illinois Go. Rod Blagojevich made a whirlwind tour of New York City yesterday, granting a slew of defiant media interviews even as lawmakers 800 miles away began his impeachment trial.

Blagojevich, who is accused in a federal indictment of trying to sell President Barack Obama’s old senate seat, blasted the impeachment proceedings and insistently defended himself to the women of “The View” as well as to Geraldo Rivera, Diane Sawyer and a slew of other TV personalities, leaving some to suggest the governor has developed an inflated sense of self.

He even had an exchange with former Mayor Ed Koch at Jean-Georges restaurant near Columbus Circle.

Koch called Blagojevich “bizarre but likable” and expressed surprise at how brazen the Democratic governor has been.

“Nobody that I have ever seen, who is charged with activity that is impeachable, has ever acted the way he has,” Koch said. “He’s giving the authorities the middle finger.”

In interviews in recent days, Blagojevich portrayed the impeachment as an effort to thwart his mission to improve health care for cancer patients, provide free buses to senior citizens and keep taxes low. He compared his arrest to the experiences of Ghandi, Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King, Jr.

“The heart and soul of this is me against the system,” he said Friday.Blagojevich also compared his situation to a character in an old Western who was told he would get a fair trial and then be hanged.

“I’m fighting this to the very end for something that’s larger than me,” Blagojevich said on “The View.”

Experts say the reaction smacks of narcissism.

“When a person who is narcissistic is highly stressed, they may unravel and you see the most primitive part of their psychic make up,” said Gail Saltz, a psychiatry professor at New York Presbyterian Hospital. “It’s never my fault, it’s someone else’s fault. It’s not a very mature defense.”

Randall Richardson-Vejlgaard, a Manhattan psychologist, said the governor seems to have “a strong belief in his own specialness.”

“He has a sense of grandiosity, a sense of entitlement,” Richardson-Vejlgaard said. “There’s actually published research showing that people who choose politics as a career tend to have these characteristics.”

On “The View,” where Blagojevich revealed that he considered Oprah Winfrey for Obama’s seat, co-host Whoopie Goldberg suggested the stubborn defiance may not help the governor.

“I wonder if you’re not hurting yourself more than helping yourself,” she said. “It looks like maybe people are not taking you seriously.”

Tags: politics, media

Municipal bonds pay off

Monday January 26, 2009 3:39 PM By Garett Sloane

By Garett Sloane

The city has been a hit with individual investors looking to stow money away from the volatile market.

Late last year investors snapped up $300 million in city-issued bonds to pay for building construction, and their voracious appetite prompted the city to sell another $650 million earlier this month.

Here is a look at the “muni” market and how it works:What are “muni” bonds?

State and local governments sell municipal bonds to raise money for major public projects from roads to sewers. “Each bond is, in effect, an IOU,” the city comptroller’s office explained.

Why are they desirable investments?

Municipal bonds are relatively safe, the interest earned is tax-free and they offer higher yields than similar investments. “If you were to go out and buy long-term municipal bonds you’d probably be able to pick up a bond for 5 percent or more. A 30-year treasury bond right now has a yield of 3.39 percent,” said Joseph T. Darcy, a senior portfolio manager at Dreyfus Corp.

How important is the credit rating for a bond?

Investors need to take a close look at the credit rating of the bond issuer, Darcy said. For example, Standard & Poor’s rates New York City General Obligation bonds at “AA.” That’s a good rating compared “BBB-” by Standard & Poor’s for Yankees debt to build their new stadium. (Yankee debt bonds go to auction today). There are some concerns that municipalities — not just New York but elsewhere — will lose credit standing as budget deficits mount.

Is the city a well-respected issuer of bonds?

The city is highly recognized by investors in the bond market. It is known to issue bonds frequently and it attracts a fair share of the $2.6 trillion “muni” bond market, Darcy said.

Tags: "muni" bonds, municipal bonds, dreyfus corp., investing, new york city, comptroller, joseph t. darcy, economy, wall street

Locally grown movement offers fresh idea for new business

Monday January 26, 2009 3:10 PM By Garett Sloane

By Lana Bortolot

Special to amNewYork

You’re trying to eat locally grown food, but are wondering what produce is available in the dead of winter. Or maybe you just got some fresh chervil but don’t know how to cook with the obscure herb.

Carlin Greenstein and Annie Stranger manufacture simple guides that will answer both those questions. The entrepreneurs have designed two informational wheels: one reveals how to use different herbs and the other shows what locally grown produce is in season.

“I spend a lot of time at the farmers market, and the common questions I hear are: ‘When are fiddleheads in?’ or ‘What do I do with this rosemary?’ ” said Greenstein, 34, who has a culinary degree from the Natural Gourmet Institute and a master’s from New York University’s Food Studies and Nutrition Program.Greenstein, a chef and nutritionist, and Stranger, a freelance graphic designer, combined their talents and interest in the locally grown movement to start their company called Chew on This.

Their wheels are popping up in a few city markets that cater to organic lifestyles such as Stinky bklyn, Urban Rustic and Sustainable NYC. The women also maintain a Web site, www.chewonthis.org.

Christian Remy, a co-owner of Stinky bklyn in Carroll Gardens, has carried the produce wheels for four months.

“What we like about it, we try to push as much local [food] as we can, so this wheel is very much part of that idea,” he said.

Chew on This is also committed to green manufacturing. The wheels are made in New Jersey using 100 percent post-consumer waste paper and minimal packaging.

Greenstein and Stranger, 29, have recouped about 40 percent of their initial $10,000 investment, they said. The wheels sell for about $11 each. So far, there has just been soft launch, the women said, and they are working on a plan for wholesale pricing and greater distribution.

“It’s very much an organic process and we’re trying to make the best decisions we can with what we know,” Stranger said. Greenstein added: “It’s hard to be a small business — it’s like wanting to be in an underground band and doing some cool stuff but make some money, too.”

Tags: chew on this, carlin greenstein, annie stranger, locally grown, grow locally, eat local, farm-to-table, small business, produce, stinky bklyn, urban rustic, sustainable nyc, retail, economy

Travel deals

Monday January 26, 2009 1:35 PM By Lucy Blatter

By Emily Mathis

Special to amNewYork

Learn to ice climb:

Embrace the winter and take advantage of this special offer by Camden, Maine’s Hartstone Inn. For $253 per person you will get two-nights stay at the inn, daily breakfast, a five-course dinner for two, and a guided day of ice climbing complete with gear and instruction for one. A second person can ice climb as well or get a one hour massage at the inn for $50 more. The offer is valid through April 30th. Hartstoneinn.com or call 1-800-788-4823.

Discover New Jersey:

Every month from now until June, the New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism and New York’s 95.5 WPLJ will give away a vacation package valued at up to $2,200. The package will include two-night accommodations, meals and tickets to cultural or recreational activities in regions of the Garden State. Enter for a chance to win this month’s getaway to New Brunswick and learn about upcoming destinations at www.visitnj.org or www.wplj.com.

US Airways and Sheraton Puerto Rican deal:

For just $687 per person, US Airways and Four Points by Sheraton Resort and Casino at Palmas del Mar — located 40 minutes from San Juan — are offering a special package that includes round trip airfare and six-nights accommodations. Hotel upgrades in San Juan are available. Book by Feb. 28th for travel through Nov. 20th. Usairwaysvacations.com or 1-800-455-0123

Journey to the center of the Earth for just $779:

This special offer from LAN Airlines includes roundtrip airfare from NYC to Quito, Ecuador, four nights stay at the Hostal de la Rabia, and a tour highlighting the city’s churches, temples, and the Equatorial Monument at the 0 degrees latitude mark. Hotel upgrades are availablefor additional costs. For travel through May 3, book by Feb. 12.

Lanvacations.com or 1-800-435-3593.

Tags: travel

Vacation responsibly

Monday January 26, 2009 1:28 PM By Lucy Blatter

SuperClubs Resorts give back to the community.

By Monique Stringfellow

Special to amNewYork

While a quick escape to the tropics would be just the thing to tide you over till spring, even entertaining the idea right now feels a bit frivolous.

So why not opt for a vacation whose benefits go beyond giving you an enviable tan?An increasing number of hotels and resorts are trying to actively contribute to their native communities.

In Jamaica, SuperClubs Resorts (Superclubs.com) — a family of properties, specializing in luxury all-inclusives — hires 95 percent of its employees from the surrounding area.

Aside from bringing jobs to the island, it also offers higher education scholarships for employees and grants for employees’ children’s secondary education.

Beyond the grounds of the properties, the SuperClubs group works with local organizations, schools and hospitals to create literacy and mentoring programs.

Another sensitive area for the tourism industry is the environment.

SuperClubs uses solar energy and monitors water usage, measures that have earned its resorts Green Globe certification.

Across the Caribbean on the Mexican Mayan Riviera, the newly opened Hacienda Tres Rios (haciendatresrios.com) is located within a 326-acre nature park.

Owners received special permission from the government to build on otherwise untouched tropical land, so all environmental concerns have been meticulously seen to.

Before beggining construction, a team of scientists studied the ecosystem to come up with a development plan that minimized environmental impact.

So, much of the land remains close to its indigenous state.

Of particular note are the 10 cenotes featured on the property.

These sea-level pools connect to subterranean water bodies.

In addition to having healing properties, they are thought to be the gateway to the afterlife in Mayan mythology.

One cenote connects to the beach via a kilometer-long waterway.

Guests can swim or kayak this route while taking in an assortment of indigenous plant and animal life.

Tags: eco-tourism, travel

Bloomberg among top 10 most generous of '08

Monday January 26, 2009 8:35 AM By Jason Fink

We all know that Mayor Michael Bloomberg is very rich and has used his considerable resources in the service of his political career by spending upwards of $150 million on his two successful elections.

But Bloomberg is also a well-known philanthropist and, just in the last year, he gave far more than that to charity. In 2008, Mayor Mike, who plans to run again this year, dropped $235 million on various charitable endeavors, making him the ninth-most generous donor in America, according to Slate magazine's annual list.

Bloomberg, who would not disclose how much he gave to each individual recipient, certainly spread the wealth. He disbursed the cash to 1,200 different non-profits, including Johns Hopkins for a children's hospital and Stand Up to Cancer, which funds cancer research.

He actually gave more than any living donor, as those ahead of him were either non-profits and estates set up after someone's death or pledged money.

Topping the list was the foundation set up by the late Leona Helmsley, which means that 2008, for all its economic turmoil, turned out to be quite a year for dogs.

-Jason Fink

Tags: economy, city hall dispatch

Viral video: Wanted: New pit crew

Monday January 26, 2009 8:34 AM By Sean Joseph

This driver will probably be looking for a new pit crew after the wheels fell off his car.

Tags: viral video, television, racing, tires

30 years ago tonight: Nelson Rockefeller dies -- and a tabloid frenzy ensues

Sunday January 25, 2009 7:18 PM By Rolando Pujol

On this edition of "Eyewitness News," John Johnson reported that the former governor had died at his office in Rockefeller Center. But there was a lot more to the story. (Via realagentofSHIELD on YouTube)

Thirty years ago Monday tonight, former New York Gov. Nelson Rockefeller died of a heart attack in Manhattan at the age of 70. The initial reports had the governor passing away at his office in Rockefeller Center, toiling away on a book about his modern art collection, one of Rocky's passions. But indeed, that was not the whole story. As the days progressed, a far more complicated and lurid picture emerged of the former vice president's final hours.

It turns out Rockefeller was not at his namesake building at all, but at his townhouse a few blocks up at 13 W. 54th St. And he was in the company of a young aide, 25-year-old Megan Marshack, when he was stricken. The tabloids had a field day with the death of the Standard Oil scion, with the story's elements of infidelity, indiscretion and cover-up. Disturbingly, help for the stricken governor was not called for up to an hour after his attack, and the details of the case proved too irresistible for "Saturday Night Live." A sketch that aired on Feb. 10, 1979 began with Don Pardo intoning: "'Emergency' starring Megan Marshack will not be seen tonight so that we may bring you this special presentation."

The story of Rockefeller's death is now steeped in city and political lore. Today, we present how New Yorkers found out about his death on the next day's edition of "Eyewitness News," with John Johnson and Anna Bond at the anchor desk. It's a remarkable report for its depth of coverage, and a very literate obituary by Roger Sharp. Ernie Anastos narrates dramatic footage of Rockefeller's arrival at the hospital, and there are shots of Rocky's wife, "Happy," arriving on the scene later. Click below for a look at where the story stood before its tabloid elements began to emerge, when the greatest blot on Rockefeller's reputation was still described as his handling of the Attica prison riot in 1971.

-- Rolando Pujol

Tags: nelson rockefeller, megan marshack, 1979, politics, scandal, old school, manhattan, history

Neil deGrasse Tyson: Dogging Pluto

Sunday January 25, 2009 7:00 PM By Rolando Pujol

By Scott A. Rosenberg

What could Neil deGrasse Tyson, an astrophysicist with the American Museum of Natural History and director of the Hayden Planetarium, have done to garner hate letters from countless elementary school children?

He was the head of the committee that demoted that far-out ice ball in the outer solar system, Pluto, from its status as a planet.

Pluto is now considered a dwarf planet (which is not considered a type of planet) and part of the Kuiper Belt, which is similar to an asteroid belt.

Recently, Tyson took what he knew about Pluto and turned it into a new book, “The Pluto Files: The Rise and Fall of America’s Favorite Planet.”“It was cathartic,” he says, “I said, ‘I can’t be the only one in the world who knows what’s in this file.’ I felt compelled and duteous to weave it all together in a sort of firsthand account - what went on here and what role I did and did not play in the demotion of Pluto.”

Tyson is able to create a narrative that takes people through Pluto’s story that is accessible for both science fiends as well as the layperson. The text is supplemented with numerous photos, pictures and editorial cartoons to bolster the information.

“I wanted to make sure you could learn some real science, not only from the history of Pluto, but about Pluto as a cosmic object,” he says. “A lot of the science is fun. There are a lot of interesting stories to tell about who made the discoveries and why and what the consequences were.”

For example, Pluto, discovered on Feb. 18, 1930, was named by an 11-year-old girl from England. In America, during the 1920s when Pluto was discovered, the was a laxative called Pluto Water, so, as Tyson points out, no American would have “named the thing Pluto because they would have been distracted by their bowels.”

So what makes Pluto so dang popular, even more so than Tyson’s favorite, the majestic and beautifully ringed Saturn?

“It’s got to be the dog,” Tyson says. “I have no other explanation.”

You can pretend you don’t know whom he’s talking about, but we’ve all grown up on the yellow bloodhound hanging out with Mickey Mouse.

“The dog has the same tenure in the hearts and minds of Americans, having been drawn the same year the cosmic object was discovered,” Tyson says. “So they’ve been with us for the same amount of time. Blame the dog.”

SIDEBAR

Will the Pluto controversy renew interest in space?

Space travel used to be front-page news and schools would stop everything to allow students to watch shuttle launches on television. These days, shuttle launches go unnoticed.

“Consider that back in the 1960s it was imagined that the future space travel would be routine,” says Neil deGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium. “So now it is the future and now it is sort of routine, so we shouldn’t somehow now be surprised that no one takes notice of a shuttle launch.”

Tyson says that when the space program does something that is not routine, it will cause the populace to take notice.

“The fact that there was so much attention given to a rather innocent scientific issue – the classification of Pluto – it alerts us of the appetite that the public has for cosmic subjects,” Tyson says.

Tags: neil degrasse tyson, pluto, the pluto files, hayden planetarium, science

Gotham grit meets Euro flair

Sunday January 25, 2009 2:56 PM By Ryan Chatelain

By Ryan Chatelain and David Freedlander

It may sound like Europe, but it’s actually the new New York City, a dramatic and pristine departure from the grit that defined city streets for decades. For the past seven years, the Bloomberg administration has been bringing its vision for public spaces to life, one that will profoundly shape the way people live and move about the city.

“I really believe you can measure the health of a city by the vitality of its streets and public spaces,” said Amanda Burden, the city’s planning commissioner. “In the end, that’s what draws people to a city. That’s what makes people fall in love with a city.”

Burden admits she has been inspired by life across the pond. She’s worked to adopt Copenhagen’s emphasis on public spaces, Paris’ penchant for sidewalk cafes and Barcelona’s renewed commitment to its waterfronts. Access to New York’s shorelines was largely limited by port activity, which declined throughout the 1900s.The Bloomberg administration is also working to double bicycle transportation by 2015. A bike-sharing program in Manhattan was launched for five days last July, and the city is aiming to add 1,000 bike racks each year.

And if other recent additions to New York’s streetscape seem familiar – namely bus shelters, shiny newsstands and high-tech public toilets – that’s because the city hired a Spanish design company, Cemusa, to install street furniture. Cemusa also has contracts in dozens of European cities, including Madrid, Spain; Lisbon, Portugal; and Milan, Italy.

In addition, the city is converting an abandoned elevated railroad on the West Side into the High Line park, a project reminiscent of Paris’ Promenade Plantée.

But opinion is divided over whether this new Big Apple is necessarily a good thing.

“There is a kind of mono-cultural aesthetic that everything is being made too coordinated and the style is this kind of glass and chrome where everything looks like a condo,” said Jeremiah Moss, who runs the blog Jeremiah’s Vanishing New York.

“It’s nice to have a place to sit, but it feels too antithetical to what a city is supposed to be, which is chaotic and organic and wild and hard to tame.”

Some New Yorkers have looked at the changes with a skeptical eye.

“Those seats in the middle and with all the planters — people are going to get run over,” said John Burke, 50, an elevator mechanic who works in the city as he looked at the “Broadway Esplanade” near 34th Street. “I’ll bet they take them out as soon as someone gets run over.”

Burden maintains that the Bloomberg administration is adamant about protecting the city’s character, relying on mixed-use zoning to preserve neighborhoods’ “small-town texture.”

Rob Pirani, director of environmental programs at the Regional Plan Association, an independent planning group, said he applauds Bloomberg’s efforts to create a more pedestrian-friendly city, especially along its waterfronts.

“Urban development is like buying a pair of shoes,” he said. “Most urban redevelopment fits great, feels right, after it’s been worn a little bit. I think that’s certainly true in New York City, where as time goes by, places develop in subtle but important ways that make them part of neighborhood.”

Tags: parks, michael bloomberg

9/11 parents demand trials for Gitmo inmates

Sunday January 25, 2009 12:34 PM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

Parents of firefighters killed on 9/11 have asked President Barack Obama to let the Guantanamo Bay detainees have their day in court.

In a letter sent yesterday to the president — days after he ordered the prison shut down within a year trials halted for 120 days — the families asked for a meeting with Obama and “a firm commitment that the delays and confusion” will end.

“It’s been screwed up for eight years now,” said Deputy Fire Chief Jim Riches, whose son, Jimmy, was killed in the World Trade Center, at a news conference at the office of their lawyer, Norman Siegel. “We want these people to stand trial and if they’re guilty we want them to suffer the same fate my son did.”

Riches just returned from Guantanamo Bay, where he watched the trial of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and four co-defendants accused of helping plot the attacks.

He said all admitted guilt during their trial and military prosecutors told him they had “mountains of evidence” against the men. The case is now suspended.Siegel, the former head of the New York Civil Liberties Union and a candidate for public advocate, acknowledged the complexity of determining what to do with the 245 detainees.

A special military commission is hearing the Mohammed case, but aspects of that system have been challenged by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Family members yesterday did not express a preference for any specific type of hearing but said they want fair and open trials – now.

“None of us will ever be healed from this,” said Maureen Santora, who lost her son Christopher. “None of us will ever have closure. But we need a resolution.”

Tags: terrorism

amNewYork letters to the editor

Sunday January 25, 2009 12:28 PM By Sara Baumberger

Gillibrand in senate = lax gun laws in the city?

New York has the lowest crime rate of the 10 biggest cities in the United States. One of the reasons for the safety of New York’s streets is the fact that New York state has strict gun control laws. Now that Kirsten Gillibrand, who supports the National Rifle Association, has been appointed to the U.S. Senate, she will be able to work to increase crime in New York.

— George Jochnowitz, Manhattan

Empowered majority isn’t the only voice

I am a practicing Christian who was glad to hear President Obama include non-believers and non-Christians in his inaugural address. Some religious leaders are aghast, on the grounds that the majority of Americans are Christian (or “Judeo-Christian,” when it behooves them to appear somewhat inclusive). A key point in my Judeo-Christian and American values is that it is not only the empowered majority who get to have a voice. Those who object show their main concern to be their own political power, for which they are consistently willing to sacrifice their values.

— John J. Fitzgerald, Manhattan

In tough times, we must work together

Re Bandon LeNoir’s letter, “A little sacrifice is OK for the good of the city,” Jan. 23-25: I applaud Citizen LeNoir for happily making middle class sacrifices in times of tightening budgets. We need to work together, stop complaining and offer some ideas while at the same time holding public officials to the fire.

— Suzy Sandor, Manhattan

Tags: letters to the editor

Grab the ox by the horns: Celebrate Lunar New Year

Sunday January 25, 2009 12:14 PM By Julie Gordon

By Robert Levin

A vaunted early-year cultural tradition begins again on Jan. 26, when the Chinese calendar turns to the Year of the Ox. In commemoration, a variety of citywide celebrations are planned, ranging from the iconic Chinatown New Year Parade to stage performances and special restaurant deals. Here are some of the highlights:

10th Annual Lunar New Year Parade

Feb. 1, 12 to 3 p.m.

Begins at Mott and Hester sts. FREE

The central event in NYC’s annual Chinese New Year celebration runs through the heart of Chinatown and can be seen from multiple vantage points, the best being on Allen Street between Canal and Grand streets. The parade features colorful floats, lavishly costumed marchers, smiling dignitaries and a variety of musical performances. A cultural festival runs concurrently at Grand and Chrystie streets from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Stories, Music and Art of the Lunar Year

Jan. 29, 4 to 5:30 p.m.

New York Public Library Seward Park Branch, 192 E. Broadway at Jefferson St., 212-477-6770 FREE

Mingmei Yip performs traditional Chinese music with the qin, a Chinese instrument, tells stories and educates about the Chinese zodiac and various New Year traditions. She also reads excerpts from her children’s book “Chinese Children’s Favorite Stories.”Folk Arts Festival

Feb. 1, 3 to 5:30 p.m.

Asian American Arts Centre, 26 Bowery, btwn Pell and Bayard sts., 212-233-2154

General $12, seniors and students $6, children 3 and under FREE

This is an interactive event in which attendees will be able to watch and talk to Ye Xun, a miniature figurine artist; Lin Yung, an ink calligrapher; and others as they demonstrate their crafts. Chinese and Tibetan folk singers perform too.

Bar Q Restaurant Tasting Menu

Jan. 26, 5:30 to 10 p.m.

308-310 Bleecker St., btwn Barrow and Grove sts., 212-206-7817 $70.74 per person

Bar Q Restaurant offers a six-course tasting menu that includes chilled salmon egg Chawanmushi (the egg represents a new beginning), pork and kimchee dumplings (meant to guarantee a happy new year) as well as many courses with symbolic meanings.

Firecracker Ceremony and Cultural Festival

Jan. 26, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Roosevelt Park (soccer field) at Canal and Forsyth sts. FREE

The firecracker ceremony, performed to combat evil spirits, is one of the central events in the annual Chinese New Year festivities.

Tags: entertainment

Street Sense: Scarves

Sunday January 25, 2009 11:40 AM By Julie Gordon

By Ariella Gogol

As temperatures plummet, and hibernation becomes a tempting alternative, New Yorkers are faced with a dilemma: To be frumpy or to be freezing?

Puffy jackets, long underwear and hat hair may not turn heads, but there is an answer to our frost-bitten funk: Scarves. From cashmere pashminas to silk ascots and woolen shawls, sidewalks are teeming with stylish neckwear. Turns out to find out where to buy, you just have to ask.

Salomon Kuradjic, 29, blogger

Chelsea

The scarf: Bought at a boutique in Denmark, $80

“It reminds me of home — and ‘Where’s Waldo.’?”

Meryll McGrath, 26, assistant designer

West Village

The scarf: H&M, $25

“I love the length of this scarf. It looks better when I wear it outside of my jacket.”

Nica Port, 20, cashier at a restaurant

Williamsburg, Brooklyn

The scarf: Goodwill, $2

“I’m really into the ’80s, and the whole brown/yellow thing.”

Allyson Candia, 24, history teacher at a public high school

East Village

The scarf: Bought from a street vendor in Soho, $8

“It adds some interest to a basic black coat, and the leopard print really spices things up.”

Check out our picks for scarves here.

Tags: fashion

Scarves: Our picks

Sunday January 25, 2009 11:20 AM By Julie Gordon

By Emily Gordon

Whether you’re trying to stay warm or merely spice up a simple ensemble, a knockout scarf can brighten up any winter day.

Lacoste wool-blend scarf, $85; at Lacoste, 608 Fifth Ave., 212-459-2300

Lacoste’s wool-blend, striped scarf is toasty-warm and soft — unlike so many of the scratchier wool items out there.

Echo floral scarf, $36; at echodesign.com

This bloom-covered silk scarf reminds you that spring and summer will soon be here.

Sir Alistair Rai love scarf, $145; at Intermix

Brand Sir Alistair Rai aims to spread a positive message with each of its pieces, including this gorgeous bright-pink rayon scarf stitched with the word “love.”

The Urban Village ‘Rwanda’ scarf, $60; at the-urban-village.amazonwebstore.com

Help out others while looking fashionable. This mohair-silk blend scarf comes from a line called Urban Village, which is designed by Whitney Port of MTV’s “The City” and is made in Rwanda by rural women artisans. One hundred percent of the wholesale profit goes back to Rwanda Community Works and The Urban Village.

Gap dip-dye scarf, $29.50; at Gap

Complement a neutral-colored outfit with this lightweight, frayed-fringe scarf from the Gap. It comes in four colors: Majesty (shown), jewel sea, mission tan and rosamunde.

Old Navy two-tone scarf, $12.50; at Old Navy

Who said fashion has to cost a lot? Not Old Navy, whose affordable two-tone scarf is one of our favorite pieces of the season.

Tags: fashion, shopping

Viral Video: The Eyebrow Dance

Sunday January 25, 2009 11:01 AM By Emily Hulme

Weird kids making weird faces to a retro synthesizer beat. What could be better? It's all in service to a Cadbury chocolate commercial, but that doesn't make it any less delightful.

Tags: viral video

NY pols to geese: Your days are numbered

Sunday January 25, 2009 10:40 AM By Jason Fink

The war on geese continues.

Several elected officials today called on the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to implement what they call a "geese reduction pilot plan" that includes shooting the birds out of the sky and putting oil on unhatched eggs, which, apparently, will prevent the baby geese from hatching.

Canada Geese have been a popular target lately - the New York Post literally put one of them inside the crosshairs to illustrate a recent front-page editorial - because of their role in bringing down the US Airways jet that landed, safely, in the Hudson River.

“This program would be the first of its kind in the city to devote measurable resources and highly trained personnel to humanely reduce the number of geese in the vicinity of the city's airports,” Councilman David Weprin (D-Hollis), said in a pepared statement.

He was joined in calling for the geese reduction program by state Sens. Eric Adams (D-Brooklyn) and Hiram Monserratte (D-Corona).

It has been reported that "bird strikes" such as the one suspected of bringing down flight 1549 are more common than many previously realized. Left unanswered, at least to this point, is why this particular bird strike proved so damaging.

It was revealed last week that the plane experienced an engine compressor failure two days earlier. There has been no indication that the previous problem is related to the accident but the National Transportation Safety Board is expected to take about a year to finish its investigation.

Tags: transportation, politics, airports

She wheels and deals

Sunday January 25, 2009 9:12 AM By Lucy Blatter

By Karen Tina Harrison

Special to amNewYork

The big career switch:

From phone-company exec to product entrepreneur

Who pulled it off?

Laura Udall, 52, the founder and CEO of Zuca luggage and travel accessories (www.zuca.com)

Why’d you give up your comfy corner office?

I wasn’t bored doing public and community relations for AT&T. But I had a eureka moment when my grade-school daughter, Rachel, developed back problems from lugging her 15-pound backpack. That was just wrong. Someone had to invent something better. That someone was me.How did you know what to do?

As luck would have it, my husband Nick is an engineer. We developed various prototypes, and the Zuca Sport rolling bookbag was born. Rachel’s back problems ceased.

How have things changed for you?

At first, Nick and I did everything and never slept. Now we have a team of 13 and have sold over 100,000 pieces. Nick’s the head product guy, and I’m in charge or the business end.

How can you succeed in launching a product?

You need what I call the three P’s — purpose, passion and persistence. The purpose is a product that improves consumers’ lives; image and buzz will not sustain you. The passion allows you to work many hours, because a business launch takes over your life. And persistence? You have to give a new business your all.

How’s the dough?

Your salary is nonexistent at first. But you can go from famine to feast if your startup takes off. And running your own company is an amazing experience. You feel so alive, and your staff is a family.

What else is there to know?

My hope was for Zucas to be considered cool. Well, Rachel is now 22 and a jazz singer, and she’s gotten all her musician friends to use Zucas. What’s cooler than that?

Tags: zucas, careers

Torre tell-all: A-Rod was 'A-fraud'

Sunday January 25, 2009 9:08 AM By Pete Catapano

In his soon-to-be released book on his time with the Bombers called "The Yankee Years," a bleak picture of the team's relationship with star Alex Rodriguez is painted.

According to two published reports, teammates frequently called Rodriguez "A-Fraud."

In addition, the book details how A-rod was obsessed with teammate and friend Derek Jeter.

The 477-book, written with Tom Verducci, will be released on Feb. 3. Torre, who last managed the Yankees in the 2007 season, is beginning the second year of a three-contract as manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

— Pete Catapano

(AP Photo)

Tags: joe torre, alex rodriguez, derek jeter, yankees

What's so wrong with vowels?

Sunday January 25, 2009 8:54 AM By Emily Ngo

This sign for GRDN, a Park Slope store, reminds me of this sign for brgr, a Chelsea eatery.

(via roboppy on Flickr)

It seems dropping vowels to create an original name for your store is not so original after all.

— Emily Ngo

Tags: shopping, signs, restaurants, brooklyn

Cheyenne Diner stripped of classic signs ahead of its big move to Alabama

Sunday January 25, 2009 8:09 AM By Rolando Pujol

The Cheyenne Diner without its neon signage on Sunday afternoon. (Photos by Rolando Pujol)

This would normally be bad news: A classic Manhattan diner was stripped of its beloved neon signage Sunday morning. But this isn't just any diner and these aren't just any signs: It's the Cheyenne Diner, and the signs and the rest of the diner will soon be taking a long trip to warmer climes in Alabama.

The Cheyenne, a streamlined rail-car-style diner built in 1940, has endured quite a saga in the past year. It closed in April to make way for a nine-story condo on its slim site. Then a plan to move it to Red Hook collapsed under rising costs and logistics. And finally, the site's owner, George Papas, who had worked to save the diner with preservationist Michael Perlman, was poised to have it demolished unless someone took it off his hands.

Click here to see photos of the missing signs.

For the second time, Perlman came to the Cheyenne's rescue, matching Birmingham, Ala. investor Joel Owens with the diner. After the Cheyenne is transported in the next few weeks, it is expected to become part of a major tourist attraction in Birmingham, and serve as the only freestanding diner in the state.

A small "Open" sign was still in place Sunday afternoon.

We stopped by the diner this afternoon to document the signless Cheyenne, which assumed that name in 1986. It was once known as the Market Diner, part of the chain. More photos and Perlman's news release are after the jump.

-- Rolando Pujol

An interior shot of the Cheyenne Diner, taken from West 33rd Street.

A sign advises disappointed diners to trot up a block to the Skylight Diner on West 34th Street. Inside, the painted Cheyenne murals are visible.

Another interior shot

An beige hard-wired rotary phone can be seen near the cashier's station at the Cheyenne Diner, along with a calendar for B&H, which is across the street and was no doubt a good customer.

Cheyenne: Urbanite coverage:

Cheyenne Diner: Saved (again!) and moving to Alabama

Oh, Cheyenne, a lamentation with some night photography

Diner for sale: Got $7,900?

Bid to save Cheyenne

amNY photo galleries

Great NYC diners, past and present

Remembering the Munson Diner

***

Preservationist Michael Perlman's news release:

NEW YORK, NY (Jan 24, 2009) – The iconic sign of NYC’s historic Cheyenne Diner (411 9th Ave & 33rd St) will be removed on Sunday, January 25, 2009 by Paul Signs Inc of Brooklyn, NY, in preparation for the move, which is to take place within the next few weeks. Michael Perlman a.k.a “Diner-Man” (http://www.observer.com/2008/diner-man-rescue) states “It is of the utmost importance to acquire the necessary permits in a timely manner, to ensure preservation via transport for this historic gem, and we urge the NYC Dept of Buildings to expedite the permits process.”

On Jan 13, 2009, Perlman brokered the deal between Joel Owens of Birmingham, AL and property owner George Papas. The diner was slated for demolition within the next few weeks, if a buyer willing to transport the diner wasn’t located. Joel Owens, head of NAIC, an investment group, became the fortunate candidate, and has announced plans to restore the Cheyenne to its 1940s glory with potential additions including a classic car museum & special events center. Owens states “This is a dream come true, especially in a state that has no historic freestanding diners.” Alabama Tourism Director, Lee Sentell, states “This has the potential to be a great Alabama destination.”

Perlman received alternate proposals from potential buyers from Upstate NY, PA, MI, TX, & UT, but it boiled down to first-come, first-serve, when faced with a 6-week deadline to clear the property. Since the Cheyenne’s dimensions are 15 ft x 96 ft (2,000 sq ft), the diner will be transported via flatbed in 2 sections to Alabama, with the expertise of Rigger Mel Brandt of M&M Rigging of PA, who transported 50 diners countrywide (including NY’s historic Moondance Diner to LaBarge, WY in Aug 2007).

Backtracking... As Chairman of Committee To Save The Cheyenne Diner, Perlman presented a proposal to property owner George Papas (owner of nearby Skylight Diner & developer for Cheyenne property) on closing day, Sunday, April 6th 2008, and convinced him to work together. A 9-story condo is slated to rise on premise, which marked the end of the diner's 68 year-run for its Manhattan chapter. Cheyenne’s ex-owner Mike O'Connell planned to transport the diner to Red Hook, but it fell through when it wouldn't fit across the Manhattan Bridge via a flatbed, and the next option, transporting it by barge, proved 3 times as costly as traditional figures a year ago.

HISTORY: The Cheyenne Diner is a highlight in terms of its diverse patronage including celebs i.e. Jerry Lewis & David Letterman, and since it's second to the last streamlined railway car-inspired diner in Mid-Manhattan, and a scarcity borough-wide. It was pre-assembled by Paramount Diners in 1940, and known as the Market Diner through '86 after the popular chain. It retains a majority of its original &/or distinctive elements. The streamlined façade features vertical and horizontal stainless steel securing bowed colorful enamel panels, wrap-around windows, a curved entryway with glass block, & a reverse channel illuminated neon sign. The interior features a streamlined barrel roof, counter & stools, & Indian tribal coins. The Cheyenne was recently granted 1st prize on NYC-Architecture.com's “Top 10 NY Diners/Restaurants.” Spiros Kasimis was the tenant for approximately two decades.

Perlman explains: “Diners are amongst the ‘ultimate public institutions’ which harbor countless memories and bridge the generations. During the 30's - 60's eras, freestanding diners numerously dotted NYC’s 5 boroughs, and brought together individuals of various occupations in a cozy & striking ambiance. Today, they are becoming an endangered species at an alarming rate, and their loss is often most heartfelt. It is essential to preserve & reuse all remaining classic freestanding diners. Despite time constraints, we are committed to doing all we can for a noble cause.” The Committee’s consensus is that “A steady market for such nostalgic gems, coupled by the fact that they were manufactured to move; can ensure a victory for the Cheyenne Diner.”

PHOTOS:

Cheyenne Diner in operation in May 2007 & April 6, 2008 closing day photos, vintage photos, & photos during Mega Moves documentary filming, Courtesy of Preservationist Michael Perlman:

http://www.flickr.com/gp/8095451@N08/7t0113

1941 photo (pan & zoom 3rd in sequence), courtesy of NYPL:

http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/dgkeysearchdetail.cfm?trg=1&strucID=401863&imageID=712065F&word=9th%20avenue%2033rd%20street&s=1¬word=&d=&c=&f=&lWord=&lField=&sScope=&sLevel=&sLabel=&total=14&num=12&imgs=12&pNum=&pos=14

NYC Diner Preservation Record

- Sam Chinita housed in freestanding diner (8th Ave & 19th St), demolished 2000

- River Diner (11th Ave & 37th St), demolished Mar 2004

- Lunchbox Diner (357 West St), restored in 2002, but closed & remains abandoned

- Munson Diner (11th Ave & 49th St) transported to the Catskills in 2005

- Moondance Diner (80 6th Ave) transported to LaBarge, WY in Aug 2007 & reopens in 2009 (Michael Perlman founded the Committee To Save The Moondance Diner in spring 2007, which made him an official NYC preservationist after working with Extell Development, and granting it a new lease on life in LaBarge, WY)

- Staten Island's Victory Diner transported in Aug 2007 to SI's Midland Beach Promenade & reopens in 2009

- Some icons holding onto their own: NYC's Empire Diner (10th Ave & 22nd St), jet-age Market Diner (11th Ave & 43rd St) reopened early Dec 2008, Air Line Diner/currently Jackson Hole (Astoria Blvd & 70th St), Square Diner (33 Leonard St near Varick St & W Broadway).

Tags: cheyenne diner, red hook, birmingham, alabama, michael perlman, endangered nyc, preservation, diners, urban archaeology, retail, manhattan, history

amNewYork letters to the editor

Thursday January 22, 2009 11:20 AM By Sara Baumberger

A little sacrifice is OK for the good of the city

Re “Middle class feels burden,” Jan 22: As part of the middle class mentioned in the article, I am feeling the strain of the many taxes that we are hit with everyday. However, I love NYC, so if I have to tighten a bit to help pick up the slack for a few years in order to maintain our beautiful parks, neighborhoods and quality of life, then I am more than happy to do that. I just hope enough of my fellow New Yorkers feel the same.

— Brandon LeNoir, Manhattan

Lay off the geese!

Re Andy Bellizzi’s letter, “Plane/bird collisions should be prevented,” Jan. 21: “Good-for-nothing” geese? Who gets to decide who’s good and who’s good for nothing? Humans don’t own this earth. We cohabit with other living things large and small. Those birds live and fly as they are entitled to. Sometimes people put such a high regard on humans, they are too quick to destroy innocent animals for our convenience.

— Mana McCullough, Manhattan

Enough with all the taxes

We just had a national election where the people showed we wanted middle-class tax relief. Only in New York State do our elected officials ignore this outcry and constantly continue to burden the middle class with such heavy taxes and fees. And then this state wonders why it cannot attract new business.

— Brian Hochberg, Richmond Hill

Tags: letters to the editor

A U.S. Mail letter box survives on West 51st Street

Thursday January 22, 2009 9:27 AM By Rolando Pujol

An old-style U.S. Mail letter box hanging in the lobby of the Women's National Republican Club on West 51st Street.

These types of letter boxes used to be ubiquitous throughout the country, hanging on poles, buildings and other structures.

Photo and text: Jefferson Siegel

Tags: old school, mailbox, history, endangered nyc, urban archaeology

Viral video: Cop breaks into wrong house

Thursday January 22, 2009 8:27 AM By Sean Joseph

This police officer breaks all the windows in the front of this house only to find out the house next door is the one on fire.

Tags: viral video, television

Getting around NYC now a point and click away

Wednesday January 21, 2009 2:08 PM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

Navigating New York City just got a lot easier.

City officials today unveiled a new Web site and revamped tourism center in midtown that combines Google maps, real-time events listings and personalized itineraries accessible in nine foreign languages.

“Tourism is the cornerstone of our economy,” said Deputy Mayor Robert Lieber. “Despite anticipated economic challenges this year . . . New York City continues to be the number one U.S. destination for tourism spending.”

The Web site, nycgo.com, will also allow users to post reviews and trade recommendations.

Partnerships with the Web sites Travelocity and Open Table will let people book restaurant reservations, hotels and flights.

Touch screens with the same features are now up and running at the city’s Information Center in midtown, which re-opened after a seven-month, a $1.8 million renovation.

People can also buy MetroCards and tickets to various tourist attractions at the center, at Broadway and 52nd Street.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg encouraged residents of the city to use the services as well as visitors.

“By extending these new travel resources to our residents, we are giving New Yorkers the chance to more actively take advantage of the city’s diverse and exciting neighborhoods,” Bloomberg said.

Tags: technology

amNewYork letters to the editor

Wednesday January 21, 2009 12:48 PM By Sara Baumberger

Media bias for Democratic president already

I think it is very interesting that the market tumbles the day after Election Day and on Inauguration Day and there is no big news. However, if a Republican was elected and sworn in, the media would spread the message that it is the end of world.

— Stefanie Cardillo Tuckahoe

America isn’t yet equal for women or gays

I almost feel for Hillary Clinton. She was so close to being the first female president, but evidently she knows little about history: Black males got the right to vote long before white women. In America, the “land of equality,” sexism is still more powerful than racism. Same as it ever was. (As shown by the proposition in California, homophobia is still more powerful than racism or sexism!)

— Tanya O’Langan, Manhattan

Iraq invasion, U.S. safety might not be connected

Re Jerry Sitner’s letter, “Bush made us safe,” Jan. 20: Sitner posits the reason the U.S. has not been attacked since 9/11 is because of the Iraq invasion. Correlation does not imply causation, Mr. Sitner.

— Adam F. Bailey, Manhattan

Accountability missing during Bush’s presidency

George W. Bush was a poster boy for what was bad in America, a society where mediocrity and incompetence have become a goal rather than a pathetic result. With arrogance, ex-President Bush expects praise for making decisions — no matter how stupid and short-sighted those decisions were. Will we learn from our mistakes and take responsibility in supporting Obama, and/or in speaking up when the true interests of the people are not being served?

— Larry Abramsky, Manhattan

Tags: letters to the editor

Obama's first 100 days will bring massive spending, experts say

Wednesday January 21, 2009 12:17 PM By Jason Fink

President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden during their first full day in office today. AP photo

By Jason Fink

During the campaign, President Barack Obama talked about using a scalpel to shape the federal budget, but he will spend his first 100 days in the White House wielding a nearly $1 trillion sledgehammer.

Obama will begin his tenure shepherding a massive economic stimulus bill through Congress and will then spend the money on everything from expanded health care to wind farms to aid for college tuition, experts say.

There may also be more bailouts, perhaps for the agricultural industry, said Steve Clemons, a director at the New America Foundation and a former Democratic strategist.

“He’s going to essentially be like FDR was and nationalize significant parts of the economy,” Clemons said. “You’re going to see emergency edicts coming out of Washington every day.”

Clemons, who said he is in regular contact with Obama officials, predicted a slew of new federal loan guarantees for homes, individuals and businesses and more money for unemployment benefits and the COBRA health insurance program.

That is in addition to an immediate $150 million for so-called “shovel-ready” infrastructure projects.Just today, Obama ordered a freeze on salaries on about 100 White House staffers making more than $100,000.

On the foreign policy front, Obama is going to continue a draw down of troops in Iraq that Clemons said has already begun. He will also seek to normalize relations with Syria in exchange for concessions, said Clemons.

The economic crisis might force some of Obama’s priorities to the back-burner – repealing the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy in the military, for example – but tucked into the stimulus bill will be other initiatives that might otherwise have been a hard sell, such as $87 billion in new Medicaid funding and $41 billion in additional school funding.

While there will be resistance, most expect the bill to pass with roughly $600 billion in new spending and $250 billion in tax cuts.

Michael Franc, vice president for government relations at the conservative Heritage Foundation, said Obama might also use the Clean Air Act to regulate greenhouse gases and widen eligibility for the Children’s Health Insurance Program.

Then there’s the matter of the $350 billion left over from the last stimulus package, over which Obama has “nearly unlimited discretion,” said Jeffrey Kling, an economist at the Brookings Institute.

“Between those two (stimulus bills), that’s vastly more than most administrations accomplish in four years,” he said.

Tags: politics, economy

Viral video: Something for the red team

Wednesday January 21, 2009 8:18 AM By Sean Joseph

Barack Obama wasn’t the only candidate in the 2008 election. Make sure you don’t forget about John McCain and Sarah Palin by purchasing a commemorative plate and drinking glass. Both are made out of 100-percent non-recyclable materials.

Tags: viral video, television, republicans, politics, sarah palin, john mccain

New Yorkers' 'great day for all mankind'

Tuesday January 20, 2009 4:12 PM By Emily Ngo

(AP)

By Jason Fink and Marlene Naanes

A crowd of hundreds who braved frigid temperatures on 125th Street in Harlem burst into deafening cheers, many jumping up and down, waving flags and crying after Barack Obama was sworn in yesterday.

Charise Miller, 36, of the Bronx, and her sister watched Obama finish the oath on a Jumbotron. The two hugged and sobbed uncontrollably, saying “thank you” over and over.

“I’m speechless,” said Miller, who said she was especially happy her 99-year-old grandmother, who once was denied the right to vote, lived to help elect the first black president. “We’ve achieved another milestone — as a country, not just as a person of color — because it took all nationalities to make this happen.”

People huddled together outside the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building for several hours to celebrate the historic event in Harlem, which many said was the next best place to be yesterday outside of Washington, D.C.“This is where black people are,” said Deborah Ferguson, 48, a Harlem resident and city worker who took the day off, donning a button featuring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Obama. “This is where they struggled. The energy is out of this world.”

Many said they came alone, wanting to share their happiness with others, albeit strangers.

“Even though they’re strangers, they’re all family — we’re all connected. It’s as if we’ve known each other for a very long time,” said Beatrice Davis, 51, who showed up at 8:30 a.m. “There are chills running down my body, and it’s not because it’s cold.”

Meanwhile, hundreds gathered to watch the ceremony on big screens around the city.

When President George W. Bush appeared on a screen at Times Square, several in the crowd sang: “Na na na na, Na na na na, hey hey, goodbye.”

Downtown in the City Hall Council Chamber, a sustained ovation erupted as a standing-room-only crowd watched Obama get sworn in. Children waved tiny American flags and many adults openly wept.

“I just wish my father and grandfather were here to see this,” said Aaron Nickey, 38, of the Bronx. “A black man is up there running the United States of America.”

Nickey, who is black, was one of about 1,000 people who watched the inauguration on a handful of TVs set up throughout the building.

Obama’s speech, broadcast on a giant screen in the council chamber, was interrupted half a dozen times by cheers and shouted praise.

“I just thought it was extraordinary,” said Queenie Huling, 63, of Coney Island, who grew up in the segregated South.

“I am so proud to be an African-American today, to have come to where we’ve come.”

Daniel Neiden, 50, of Manhattan, brought his two children, 10-year-old Evan and 7-year-old Dora.

“I think the world stopped to listen,” he said of the speech. “And I think they heard that it’s time for all of us to get back to work.”

In Harlem, Marine Staff Sgt. Jason Gates, 30, of Bay Ridge saluted as the Jumbotron played the national anthem.

“It’s a great day for all mankind, regardless of race, creed or color. … I’m excited and proud,” Gates said. “That’s my new boss, so I got his back wherever, whenever.”

(Rhonda Vanover)

The experience in person

Tuesday January 20, 2009 4:11 PM By Emily Ngo

(AP)

By Meg Boyle

Special to amNewYork

Barack Hussein Obama made history on Tuesday when he became the first black president of the United States, calling on all Americans to reject fear and embrace a renewed sense of personal responsibility.

Freezing temperatures did not stop nearly 2 million people from traveling to the National Mall to witness history, many entering in the early morning and standing for hours. Volunteers greeted the incoming spectators with cheers and high-fives, helping to create a mood of jubilation and good will. The crowds eventually stretched from the steps of the Capitol to the Washington Monument and even beyond to the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.A reverent-looking Obama exited the Capitol while the excited audience shouted his name. Just before noon, his hand on the Bible held by his wife Michelle, Obama took the oath of office and became the 44th president of the United States.

In his inaugural address, President Obama directly addressed the challenges facing America but pledged decisively that those challenges would be met. Obama also acknowledged the historical significance of the day, noting soberly that Tuesday, "a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath."

Henican: One sacrifice Bam won’t make: Values

Tuesday January 20, 2009 3:47 PM By Ryan Chatelain

"I ... do solemnly swear” — to something or other.

That was Barack Obama, led astray by John Roberts.

You’d think the chief justice wouldn’t flub one of the most famous passages in the whole Constitution. Then again, Roberts’ ad-hoc editing of the presidential oath probably explains some things about this court’s casual disregard for the Geneva Convention and the Fourth Amendment.

Hey, they’re only words, right?It was a little weird, hearing the new president declare, “I, Barack Hussein Obama” twice. An “of” became a “to.” “Faithfully” jumped from one place to another. The verb “execute” was there — and then it wasn’t.

But yesterday’s linguistic Cuisinart will quickly be forgotten, and a more important reality will sink in: Yes, Barack Obama is now president, and he has change in his eyes.

Summoning forth the best of the American spirit. Steeling the nation for tough times ahead. Laying the outlines for a serious reassessment of how we interact with the rest of the world.

There were many memorable lines in the speech. But none packed more meaning — or signaled a greater break with the recent past — than this: “We reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals.”

It was the Bush administration’s eagerness to sacrifice the latter for the former that explains much of the international mess we are in.

Winking at torture. Disrespecting diplomacy. Treating our allies like our servants. Acting as if our way is the only way for everybody else.

Since 9/11, fear for our safety has too often explained away our values, those precious beliefs that made us better than our enemies.

Loud and clear, on a chilly noon outside the Capitol, after a shaky Constitutional oath, Barack Obama made clear his break from this past.

Said the new president, finding truth in the struggles that got us here:

“Our Founding Fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience’s sake.”

Goodbye, 43. Hello, 44.

Tags: politics, barack obama, ellis henican

Obama takes place in history books

Tuesday January 20, 2009 3:28 PM By Emily Ngo

(AP)

By Emily Ngo

Barack Obama cemented his place in history yesterday, taking the oath of office as the nation’s first black president and ushering Americans into a “new era of responsibility.”

He reflected on the United States’ hard-fought beginnings and emphasized that its future — shadowed by war and economic distress — depends on the same doctrine of sweat and tears.

“Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off and begin the work of remaking America,” said Obama, the nation’s 44th president and its fourth youngest at 47.

As outgoing President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney looked on rather glumly, Obama encouraged greater accountability for the weakened economy, caused by “our collective failure to make hard choices.”

Nearly 2 million ecstatic supporters braved unrelenting cold and flooded the National Mall in Washington, D.C., to share in the historic moment. Worldwide, billions followed the ceremony via TV — proof of how broadly Obama’s message of hope and change has resounded.

Joined by wife Michelle and daughters Malia, 10, and Sasha, 7, Obama placed his hand on a worn Bible used in 1861 by Abraham Lincoln when he was first sworn in. He stumbled slightly over the 35-word oath of office but followed with an inspirational inaugural speech that heralded a new dawn of progress.“On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord,” said the former Illinois senator. “On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises.”

Obama, son of a white mother from Kansas and a black father from Kenya, touched upon his racial background during his 18-minute speech. He spoke about energy efficiency and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

“What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility — a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation and the world,” Obama said.

And he delivered a direct message to enemies: “We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense.”

Afterward, the president and first lady joined Vice President Joe Biden and his wife as they rode along the 1.7-mile parade route, getting out of their heavily armored car to walk at length and greet jubilant supporters.

“He’s the people’s president,” said Patricia Correia, 68, of California. “He would not be the type to sit here in the car. He knows that we waited out here this long.”

Fifty-eight federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and tens of thousands of cops secured yesterday’s festivities — and no one was arrested. (with AP)

Tuesday January 20, 2009 3:23 PM By Emily Ngo

(AP)

By Perrie Samotin

The $1,500 brocade dress Michelle Obama donned for her husband’s swearing-in got high marks from fashionistas, but the jury was still out last night on the one-shoulder, Grecian-style gown she wore to the Inaugural Ball.

Michelle emerged yesterday morning in a sunny yellow sheath and matching coat from Cuban-American designer Isabel Toledo, complete with a jeweled collar and clever use of tulle, pashmina wool lace and French silk for warmth.

A bold choice, but it worked.

“It was a perfect look from head to toe,” said Peter Ishkhans, host of the Style Network’s “Peter Perfect.” He said everything about Michelle — from her polished blow-out to her unexpected green pumps and matching gloves — was spot-on. The outfit was a breath of fresh air compared to previous looks worn by first ladies. And by previous, we mean ... beige.“We’re so used to stiff twin-sets and pearls, but [Michelle’s] look had just enough edge,” Ishkhans said. “It gave the youth something to identify with.”

At about 8:15 p.m., Michelle emerged in an ivory gown, designed by Jason Wu — a departure from her signature jewel tones.

Also refreshing were the newly minted first daughters, both looking comfortable and cute in age-appropriate coats from J. Crew. Malia, 10, wore deep periwinkle, while Sasha, 7, fittingly wore punchier shades of pink and orange.

“We wanted to offer a collection that would not define them, but one that would let their own personalities shine through,” said Jenna Lyons, creative director of J. Crew.

Inaugural poem, invocation leave some underwhelmed

Tuesday January 20, 2009 3:19 PM By Emily Ngo

By Rolando Pujol

Yale University professor Elizabeth Alexander became only the fourth person to deliver a poem on Inauguration Day, but early reviews concluded that her contribution won’t challenge the place in history of presidential poets Robert Frost and Maya Angelou.

In fact, some observers say it may come down to this: It just wasn’t very captivating.

After all, the Associated Press described it as “a grounded, non-topical summation and joining of minute details and infinite themes.”

Erica Wagner, in the Times of London, summed up “Praise Song for the Day” thusly: “unmemorable.”

“How do I know that for sure?” Wagner asked online. “Why, because I can’t remember it. Two minutes after it was spoken I couldn’t remember it.”

That’s not to say her poem lacked flourishes that captured the symbolism of Obama’s rise: “Say it plain: that many have died for this day,” Alexander wrote.The Los Angeles Times wasn’t too keen on it, either, saying it failed to capture the day’s import. “Relying on prosaic language — ‘Each day we go about our business,’ the poem opens, a strange sentiment for an occasion that, on so many levels, was not about business as usual.”

She had a tough act to follow, of course — Obama’s epoch-defining speech. Before that speech, the Rev. Rick Warren delivered the invocation. The California minister was a controversial choice because of views on homosexuality and abortion.

The author of “The Purpose Driven Life” struck strong inclusive tones. “Dr. King and a great crowd of witnesses are shouting in heaven,” Warren said.

His mere mention of King was enough to set some off.

“First of all, how dare he even mention Martin Luther King. Second, those portions which were not direct quotes from scripture were a mess,” said the liberal blogger D-Day. “He got little more than polite applause and the complete mess he made of the invocation showed that what applause he got wasn’t earned.”

Bush back home in Texas

Tuesday January 20, 2009 2:03 PM By Pete Catapano

by amNewYork staff

Tonight, George W. Bush is just another guy in Texas.

Unfazed by his unpopularity after eight erratic years in office, Bush exited his presidency today while wearing a smile and blowing a kiss as his limo left the White House.

Some in the crowd at Barack Obama’s swearing-in ceremony booed when large viewing screens showed the two-term Republican president arriving.

At one point, people cheered when they heard a broadcaster announce, “George Bush is no longer president of the United States.”

But it was quite a different story at his raucous homecoming in Midland, Texas last night.

A jovial Bush told the crowd how happy he was to return home, saying, “Laura and I may have left Texas, but Texas never left us.”

Recognizing that many of his decisions as president had been unpopular, Bush stressed that “every day I followed a set of principles.” He added that he was, “coming home with my head held high and a sense of accomplishment.”

(AP Photo)Earlier in the day, Bush and his wife, Laura, hosted Obama and his wife, Michelle, Vice President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill, and lawmakers for coffee at the White House.

Keeping with a White House ritual, Bush left a note for Obama in his desk in the Oval Office, wishing him well as he takes the reins of power.

“I won’t provide any details, but the theme is similar to what he’s said since election night about the fabulous new chapter President-elect Obama is about to start,” Bush’s press secretary Dana Perino said.

After the inauguration, Bush quickly disappeared into a hangar for a private farewell speech to scores of former White House aides and supporters before boarding the plane to Texas. He was expected to arrive at his Crawford, Texas, ranch late last night.

Aside from relaxing, Bush said his future plans involve writing a book. “I’d like to be a part of making the real history of this administration come to life.”

Dick Cheney had the misfortune of attending the day’s events in a wheelchair. Cheney, 67, pulled a back muscle while moving boxes.

On NBC News, Tom Brokaw said Cheney had a “Dr. Strangelove”

appearance. (with AP)

Tags: george w. bush, barack obama, inauguration, politics

amNewYork letters to the editor

Tuesday January 20, 2009 12:56 PM By Sara Baumberger

NYPD should have been first responders to crash

It didn’t surprise me when the first responders to the US Airways accident were civilian boats and not the police. If our waterways and ports are so secure, why did it take the NYPD so long to respond? Wake up, NYPD and Mayor Bloomberg.

— Joe Massa, Manhattan

Plane/bird collisions should be prevented

Airplane crashes like the one in the Hudson River could be reduced by a lot if New Jersey and New York would allow hunters to shoot these good-for-nothing geese down. In addition, engineers could come up with something better to prevent the birds from being sucked into the motor like adding some bars or special screens to bounce the birds off. Many people have been killed by similar airplane/bird crashes in the past.

Andy Bellizzi, North Bergen, N.J.

Global warming not a theory

Re Leonard Wilson’s letter, “Cold snap proves Al Gore’s warming theory is wrong,” Jan. 19: Wilson’s letter claiming that Al Gore was just “selling” global warming scares me in a way I can’t describe. I won’t try to change Mr. Wilson’s mind, as I’m guessing it might already have been set before this recent cold snap. It will always be true that, in science, 2+2=4. But what some people don’t realize is that in the “real world,” that’s usually the end result of the simplification of a much larger and more complex formula. Ergo, global warming can’t be expressed as simply as what your thermometer says.

Sergio D. Caplan, Manhattan

Tags: letters to the editor

February is for chocolate lovers

Tuesday January 20, 2009 12:48 PM By Lucy Blatter

Laurent Richard's chocolate ferris wheel. Photo: Diana Delucia.

Chocolate lovers (or simply lovers) can enjoy a real treat next month.

On Friday and Saturday nights from February 6 to the 28, the Ritz-Carlton in Battery Park will feature a carnival-themed chocolate buffet, dubbed the Chocolate Bar.

Inspired by Coney Island, pastry chef Laurent Richard has sculpted a roller coaster, ferris wheel and merry-go-round entirely out of chocolate.

They are really something to see.

The per-person charge for all-you-can-eat chocolate treats and a bottomless glass of Champagne (not to mention great views) is $75.

Tags: laurent richard, ritz-carlton, valentine's day, food

The Speaker and the Boss

Tuesday January 20, 2009 12:15 PM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

City Council Speaker Christine Quinn had pretty good seats for seeing the inauguration of Barack Obama today, but she had a much closer view of another pop culture icon.

Quinn and her party showed up at 8 a.m. and so they got good seats within their section, she said today in a phone interview, but Bruce Springsteen, who was nearby, got there late and had to sit further from the middle.

"Whatever tickets you had, you had," said Quinn. "And if you got there late you had to sit off to the side. Bruce Springsteen got there late so he had to sit off to the side."

Alas, Quinn said she did not get a chance to talk to the Boss.

But she did gush about the experience of being in Washington for the swearing-in.

“It’s been incredibly exciting to be down here," she said. "It’s hard to capture the whole sense of the town this weekend, it’s just overwhelmed with folks. It was great."

She also gave Obama high marks for his speech: “I thought the speech was really terrific. This is a difficult moment to be president of the United States. I thought the president did a wonderful job of delivering a visionary as well as an inspirational speech."

Tags: christine quinn, bruce springsteen, inauguration, barack obama, politics, entertainment

Viral video: Hard landing

Tuesday January 20, 2009 11:57 AM By Sean Joseph

This is why adults should leave playgrounds to the kids.

Tags: viral video, television, swing

Everybody loves ramen

Tuesday January 20, 2009 11:26 AM By Lucy Blatter

By Alexis Korman

Special to amNewYork

Times are so tough, you’re probably contemplating eating ramen noodles. Again.

But you don’t have to suffer through flashbacks of your college-era, Cup O’Noodle-eating days.

We asked esteemed chef Pichet Ong (former pastry chef at Jean-Georges and owner of Village eatery, P*ong) how our readers might dress up basic ramen noodles in these budget-stretching times.

His answer: a delectable savory dish, Ramen Carbonara, that puts an Italian spin on an Asian classic — without costing an arm and a leg.

“Carbonara is a longtime favorite flavor of mine” says Chef Ong, “this Asian surf and turf version, with the addition of oceanic kombu and smoky bonito, makes for a mouthwatering experience.”And for those of you looking for a penny-pinching sweet treat, we tracked down Chelsea White’s Ramen Haystacks recipe, which won Second Place at Brooklyn Kitchen’s annual “Ramen-Off” competition.

Ramen Carbonara

Ingredients:

Broth

2 pieces of ginger, ¼" coins

2 scallions with roots, cut into ¼" pieces

1 medium carrot, peeled and thinly sliced

10 black peppercorns

2"x2" piece of parmesan rind, with the center reserved for serving

2 dried chili peppers

2 cups bonito flakes or 2 strips of bacon

1 large piece of kombu (or seaweed, available at Asian markets), about 5"x6", rinsed

1. Place ginger, scallions, carrots, peppercorns, dried peppers, bacon, and parmesan rind in a tall stock pot, add 6 cups of cold water and bring mixture to a simmer. Let simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes until the vegetables are soft.

2. Add bonito and kombu and bring mixture to a simmer again. Remove from heat at first sign of boil and when bonito sinks to bottom, set aside for 5 minutes.

3. Strain through fine mesh sieve and save the liquid. Let cool completely and refrigerate if not used same day.

Chef's tip: if bonito flakes are not available, substitute with 2 strips of bacon. Strips can be crisped in toaster oven and served with finished ramen dish.

Ramen

2 packages of ramen

2 strips of bacon, cut into ¼" pieces

1 cup spinach

1 scallion, finely julienned, soaked in cold water

2 eggs

black pepper

Parmesan (to taste)

1. Fill a pot with 2 quarts of water and bring to a boil. Add spinach and bring mixture to a boil again. Remove the spinach, reserving hot water for use again. Rinse spinach under cold running water, and squeeze out excess liquid with hands, and set aside for assembly.

2. In the same pot, bring hot water to boil again, adding noodles, stir constantly. When noodles are al dente, drain them though a mesh sieve and discard the water. Divide noodles equally amongst 2 deep bowls. Place spinach, bacon bits, and scallion on top.

3. In the same pot, bring parmesan broth to a scald. Add eggs, one at a time, and poach until egg white starts to solidify, and place each on the noodles.

4. Pour hot broth over the noodles to cover. Sprinkle parmesan and cracked black pepper on top to taste. Serve immediately.

Serves 2

Ramen Haystacks

Ingredients

5 packages of ramen

1 cup peanuts

1/4 cup peanut oil

1 cup white chocolate chips

1 cup peanut butter chips

1 cup peanut butter

1. Fry crushed ramen and peanuts in oil. Drain on paper towels.

2. Melt chips and peanut butter in a large bowl in the microwave (3-5 min @ 1/2 power). 3. Add peanut and ramen mixture and toss to coat.

4. Drop by spoonful onto paper-lined cookie sheets and place in fridge for an hour. 5.Alternatively, use bulk almond bark instead of the chocolate & peanut butter chips to save extra cash.

Tags: ramen noodles, p*ong, pichet ong, food

What's in season: Meyer lemons

Tuesday January 20, 2009 11:20 AM By Lucy Blatter

By Ben Muessig

Special to amNewYork

New Yorkers are usually culinary trendsetters, but we're behind the times when it comes to West Coast produce. This week, pick up a more mild variety of lemon that has long been a linchpin in California cuisine.

Meyer lemons are hybrid fruits that combine the citric zest of lemons with the sweet flavor of oranges — and they're a favorite in California restaurants and kitchens.

"On the West Coast, everybody knows about them," said Jason Stemm, a spokesman for Meyer lemon growers. "They're so prevalent that a lot of people have trees in their own backyards — but they really haven't caught on as much over here."Meyer lemons can find a place in any recipe that calls for lemons, like marinades, sauces, dressings, and garnishes.

These versatile fruits are loaded with vitamin C, and their naturally sweet flavor makes them ideal for lemonades, baked goods and sorbets, which all require less sugar when prepared with Meyer lemons.

Fresh Meyer lemons cost about $3 per pound, and are available at specialty grocery stores and supermarkets.

Recipe:

Meyer Lemonade

1/2 cup sugar

3/4 cup Meyer lemon juice (about 4 lemons)

2 1/2 cups of water

1) Combine sugar and 1/2 cup of water in a small bowl.

2) Microwave on high until hot, or for about one minute.

3) Stir until sugar dissolves.

4) In small pitcher, combine Meyer lemon juice, 2 cups of water and dissolved sugar.

5) Refrigerate before serving.

Yield: about 4 cups

Recipe courtesy of Jason Stemm

Tags: food

Coney rezoning plan unveiled

Tuesday January 20, 2009 10:52 AM By Ryan Chatelain

By Ryan Chatelain

The city’s Planning Commission yesterday certified a proposal to rezone 19 blocks of Coney Island – a move aimed to convert the iconic but struggling Brooklyn neighborhood into a year-round amusement destination and to attract economic development to an area where residents complain there’s nowhere to buy clothes.

In a 50-minute presentation to the commission, city officials unveiled plans to create a 27-acre indoor and outdoor amusement and entertainment district, which would include a 12-acre amusement park on land controlled by the city. The rezoning would allow for up to 800 hotel rooms in the amusement district, hotel towers of up to 27 stories and other entertainments venues such as a water theme park, a movie theater and restaurants.The waterfront district’s current C7 zoning prohibits, for example, enclosed amusements and sit-down dining.

“Today we are certifying what I believe is one of the most important rezoning plans this administration has sought to date,” said Amanda Burden, the city’s planning commissioner. “Coney Island is one of New York’s greatest icons.”

About a half-dozen people silently protested the city’s proposal during the meeting, holding up signs that read, “Save Coney Island. Preserve C7 Amusement Zoning.”

John Daquino, a member of the Coney Island Polar Bear Club, said after the meeting that he opposed the plans to allow for hotels or large commercial franchises on blocks now reserved strictly for amusement parks.

“I think the hotels will ultimately be turned into condos,” Daquino, 32. “It’s like saying, ‘Central Park has a lot of space; let’s put a condo up, or let’s put a Sizzler in there.’ [Coney Island] is a park."

The rezoning will now undergo an approval process that is expected to take about seven months. The proposal will go before Brooklyn Community Board 13 and then Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, who can recommend changes. It then must be approved by the Planning Commission and the City Council.

Tags: coney island, planning commission

Wait! There's more: councilman talks over inaugural poet at City Hall watch party

Tuesday January 20, 2009 10:39 AM By Jason Fink

After President Barack Obama's inaugural address, some people began to file out of the City Council chamber, where a large crowd had gathered to watch. What some apparently didn't realize -including Councilman Oliver Koppel (D-Bronx) - is that there was more to the festivities.

Koppel took the microphone and began to thank the crowd and talk about the historic nature of Obama's swearing in, even as most of those seated in the chamber were trying to watch poet Elizabeth Alexander recite her verse.

There were shouts and hoots from the audience until Koppel, who for a few minutes seemed unaware, realized what was going on and stepped away.

Tags: city hall dispatch

New era begins with 44th president Barack Obama

Tuesday January 20, 2009 7:51 AM By Emily Ngo

(AP)

President Barack Obama is sworn in as the 44th president of the United States.

The Obama ladies choose J.Crew

Tuesday January 20, 2009 7:45 AM By Julie Gordon

By Julie Gordon

Famously frugal fashionista Michelle Obama donned olive green J.Crew gloves along with her Isabel Toledo ensemble to President Obama's swearing-in ceremony, while adorable Sasha and Malia Obama both wore full outfits from crewcuts by J.Crew, a rep confirmed. Malia featured wore a periwinkle blue coat, and Sasha donned a deep coral dress under her guava coat.

The outfits were specially designed for the Obamas, but highlights may be seen in the fall '09 J.Crew and crewcuts collections.“We wanted to offer a collection that would not define them/, but one that would let their her own personalities shine though,” said Jenna Lyons, Creative Director of J.Crew.

Michelle also wore the brand to the “Kids’ Inaugural: We Are The Future" concert, while the girls donned crewcuts to the inaugural concert Sunday.

J.Crew's Web site has this message for the Obamas -- in red, white and blue lettering, of course: "Congratulations to the first family. On this historic day, all of us at J.Crew would like to extend our very best to the president and his family."

Tags: michelle obama, j.crew, fashion

NY pols flock to D.C. for historic swearing-in

Tuesday January 20, 2009 6:18 AM By Emily Ngo

By Emily Ngo

Councilman John Liu is understandably eager to attend Barack Obama’s inauguration today, but his 8-year-old son has a special reason to look forward to it.

“It’ll be the first time he has ever missed school,” said Liu (D-Queens). “He’s excited; the whole class is excited.”

Third-grader Joey, along with Liu’s wife Jenny, are among the loved ones joining New York politicians in Washington, D.C., for Obama’s historic swearing-in as the nation’s first black president.

City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, who will be part of Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s inaugural entourage, is bringing partner Kim Catullo as her guest.

“This historic moment, for me, represents a sense of renewed hope and optimism,” Quinn said. “Barack Obama has shown that despite the obstacles we are faced with, we can overcome them.”

Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) has more official obligations than social ones today, but he’s looking forward to them all, said spokesman Joshua Vlasto. Schumer is to attend the Mid-Atlantic inaugural ball tonight at the D.C. Convention Center among other events, Vlasto said.Rep. Anthony Weiner, also in the capital, said the anticipation about Obama’s next four years is so high that he can physically feel it. “There is a palpable sense that the door of change has swung open,” said Weiner (D-Brooklyn/Queens). “I believe New Yorkers want problem solving, not politics.”

Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrion, Rep. Charles Rangel (D-Manhattan/Queens) are among other New Yorkers expected to attend the inauguration.

In New York, however, hundreds are slated to pack City Hall to watch Obama’s moment via television. Interest in the event was so great that officials were forced to turn down guests. Liu, though he’ll be in Washington, is hosting a similar screening at Flushing Town Hall.

At Borough Hall in Brooklyn, Borough President Marty Markowitz will be watching history unfold with his constituents, said spokeswoman Laura Sinagra. State Sens. Eric Adams (D-Brooklyn) and Toby Ann Stavisky (D-Queens) also are staying in town to watch from familiar surroundings.

Some local lawmakers without a golden ticket to Inauguration Day may, in the end, have a better view of Obama than Liu.

“I’m in Row 56. I have no idea where that is, but I’m very excited,” the councilman said. “The country and indeed the world changed when Obama was elected.”

Tags: politics

Crowds swell at City Hall for inauguration viewing

Tuesday January 20, 2009 5:57 AM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

About 1,000 people packed into City Hall this morning, jostling for seats to watch Barack Obama's inauguration on large screen TVs set up throughout the building.

Lines began forming well before the building opened to the public at 9:30 and those who showed up late were turned away, with city officials providing lists of other spots nearby where public viewing parties are being held.

Several people said they had never seen anything like it, as school children camped out on the first floor of the rotunda and overflow crowds milled around the second floor outside the council chambers, where chairs were set up to watch the festivities.

"It's a very historic event," said Preetha Chakravarti, of Brooklyn, a teacher at the all-grils Urban Assembly School for Criminal Justice, who brought 130 students to watch the inaugural. "We have a lot of children of immigrants who can relate to Barack Obama's background."

In addition to the council chambers, TVs were set up in the council committee room, the Red Room on the first floor and in the rotunda.

"It would have been nice to be in D.C. but this is the next best thing," said Calvin Patterson, 43, of Brooklyn.

Tags: city hall dispatch, politics

New Yorkers express hopes, expectations for Obama presidency

Monday January 19, 2009 1:20 PM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

Tomorrow's inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th president is among the most highly anticipated transfers of power in recent memory.

With people in New York and across the country struggling economically and two foreign wars raging, millions are looking to Washington for answers.

amNewYork asked New Yorkers to tell the incoming president what they hope

for, what they expect and what wishes they have for his administration.

“Barack should just be true to who he is and not get sucked into appeasing too many people but to really stand firm in what makes him the great man and person that he is. I am so looking forward to what he has planned for this nation for the big, broad stroke.”

Christopher Hibma, 35, Manhattan“I would say there are three main priorities I hope he has. One: Help get the leaders of the world speaking to each other to help create a peaceful world. Two: Focus on education, provide better resources to schools, recruit more teachers from different walks of life. Three: Help create more economic opportunities for people who are struggling.”

Jamie Hopper, 40, Upper West Side

“I’m really concerned about education, I’m really concerned about diplomacy. We need to find more peaceful solutions, make weaponry less accessible domestically and internationally. We need a return to healthy funding for education and more funding for the arts. Maybe a secretary of the arts.”

Tomashi Jackson, 27, Brooklyn

“I would hope that Barack Obama would make it so that insurance for my kid would not be so expensive. I want him to think of single parents. I hope he makes us a safer country so we don’t have to wake up with fear anymore. There should be more opportunities for civilians to learn emergency response training.”

Lucy Vazquez, 27, Manhattan

“I really just want to thank him for continuing this tradition of strong black men in this country, which is something that is rare these days, and I think he is a great influence for a lot of people who don’t have a strong black man in their lives personally.

Ronald Peet, 20, Manhattan

“A lot of people are going to be relying on him. What he needs to do is reach out more and actually get their help too. He can’t do this on his own.”

Sloane Taylor, 18, Manhattan

“The biggest thing on everybody’s mind now is fix the economy. A lot of people are losing their jobs so I want to see more hiring. If he could help out the MTA so they don’t have to raise fares to $3 that would be a good thing too.”

Michelle Mars, 42, Brooklyn

“Better employment, more jobs for people, better education. He should help people live better, make it a little easier so we don’t have to struggle so hard to pay rent. He should give better health care to more people. Even when you have health care, you can’t always get what you need. They don’t cover everything.”

Kim Maristany, 47, Harlem

“I hope that he asks everyone to make sacrifices as far as energy is concerned. I would hope that he would move us off fossil fuels and to more clean energy. Green jobs are also the way to fix the economy.”

John Sabia, 27, Queens

“I wish that he could carry out his agenda even though it is a difficult economy. Hopefully there will be balance and equality for everyone. There will be more jobs, more health benefits and more of everything for everyone.”

Barbara Pettus, Brooklyn

“I hope he would follow through on his promises to focus on actually getting things done and not being too ideological. Health care is huge. There are millions of people who don’t have it and they have to forgo basic health coverage. Obama has to expand the amount of people who have access to health care.”

John Gaffney, 36, Upper West Side

“He should equalize resources and create opportunities for people. Everybody should have access to health care. There’s been a disproportionate gap between the working class and the rich and hopefully he can bridge that gap. There should be fairer taxes – he should tax the wealthy.”

Richard Rivera, 40, Bronx

“Good luck. I wish him the best of luck. He’s got a hell of a four years ahead of him. There’s a lot of work to do.”

Kathleen Rollock, 40, Bronx

(Jed Kim contributed to this story)

Tags: politics

Paterson: I haven't picked a new senator yet

Monday January 19, 2009 12:25 PM By Pete Catapano

By Stephen J. Bronner

Special to amNewYork

Gov. David Paterson debunked reports yesterday that he’s already decided on Caroline Kennedy to replace Hillary Clinton in the U.S. senate.

"I can say, definitively, I do not know who the next senator from New

York is right now," Paterson said at a news conference yesterday,

according to the Albany Times Union. "I would swear to it."

He added, "I would figure that by this weekend, we would come up with a candidate."’

Paterson said that he’s still reviewing documents pertaining to the decision.

Clinton can be confirmed as secretary of state after Barack Obama

is sworn in as president today, clearing the way for Paterson's announcement.

Several unnamed senate contenders apparently told The New York Post in a story published yesterday that Paterson would choose Kennedy to avoid backlash from

her family and even Obama, who was supported by Kennedy during the

primaries.

Caroline Kennedy still hasn't been picked by David Paterson, nor has anyone else (AP Photo)The senate seat has become a hot issue since Clinton's appointment was

announced in December. Kennedy revealed her interest in the seat,

adding her prestigious name to a list of candidates who include state

Attorney General Andrew Cuomo, Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi and

Reps. Carolyn Maloney and Steve Israel.

A Quinnipiac poll released last week showed New Yorkers now prefer

Cuomo for the job by a 31 to 24 percent margin. A similar poll a month

ago had Kennedy leading Cuomo by a 33 to 29 percent margin.

Voters do not get to choose who will fill in the senate seat. The

responsibility rests solely on Paterson, who told CNN's Larry King

Sunday, "It doesn't feel that way when I read the newspapers."

Paterson's choice will be seated until 2010, when they will face

election, which Paterson finds comforting.

"As much pressure as I feel to make this decision, the public has not

thought of these replacement senators as real incumbents," he told Larry King.

"I'm relieved by the fact, in a short period of time, 18 months, the

public will make the real decision."

Tags: caroline kennedy, hillary clinton, david paterson, andrew cuomo, tom suozzi, carolyn maloney, steve israel, barack obama, politics

Train tripping

Monday January 19, 2009 9:58 AM By Lucy Blatter

The Trans-Siberian Railway is one of the world's most famous. Photo credit: Ville-Veikko Mastomäki

By Mirva Lempiainen

Special to amNewYork

Prefer trains to planes? Here’s a guide to some of the greatest train journeys in the world.

The Deccan Odyssey

The Deccan Odyssey of India proves that sometimes the journey is more important than the destination.

The luxury train departs from Mumbai and seven days later arrives there again. During the week you get introduced to the grand forts and palaces of Marathas, ancient churches of Goa, and the Hindu and Buddhist caves of Ellora.

Its 21 coaches are decorated with shades of gold and facilities include an Ayurvedic massage centre, a beauty parlor and a spa.

Tickets start at $260 for a triple occupancy berth and go up to $750 for a private presidential suite.Trans-Siberian Railway

The Trans-Siberian Railway spans more than a third of the globe and covers more than 5,700 miles.

During its seven-day journey from Moscow to the Pacific Ocean, it passes 87 towns and 10 time zones.

In Eastern Siberia the train splits into three directions: The Trans-Mongolian route continues to Beijing via Mongolia, the Trans-Manchurian goes to Beijing through Siberia and Chinese Manchuria, and the Trans-Siberian continues to Vladivostok.

Tickets can be as cheap as $300 if you travel independently, or as much as $3,000 with a tour.

The Blue Train

Known as the moving five-star hotel, the Blue Train covers a 27-hour, 1,000-mile journey across South Africa, from Cape Town to Pretoria.

Life on board is luxurious, with elegant lounges, high-end suites, fine dining and boutiques. During low season (all but Sept. 1-Nov. 15), a double occupancy luxury suite costs $975 and a deluxe suite about $900.

The Orient Express

One of the most famous trains in the world, the original 1883 Orient Express went from Paris to Istanbul.

Since then, the name has referred to many different trains traveling a variety of European routes, with the common denominator being the extravagant service.

To experience the glory of days gone by, take the Venice Simplon Orient Express from London to Venice. The two-day, one-night journey takes you through the Kentish countryside and the Swiss Alps. One-way tickets start at $3,120.

The Canadian

Take the ultimate road trip with the historical Canadian. The trip from Toronto to Vancouver takes three days and four nights and has been running since 1955.

Known as “the first and only all-stainless steel ‘dome’ stream-liner in Canada,” the train’s coaches are still the originals.

Stops include Winnipeg, Edmonton, Jasper and Vancouver. The route boasts scenic lake land, the Western plains of the Prairies and some great views of the Canadian Rockies.

Tickets start at $350 and go up to $2,500.

The California Zephyr

The California Zephyr’s journey runs from Chicago to San Francisco and ventures through the Rockies and Sierra Nevada. It is one of Amtrak’s most scenic routes and, at 53 hours, one of its longest.

It is an afforfable option for crossing the country: one-ways start at $180. A private room is $630 extra.

Australia’s Ghan and Indian Pacific

The sheer size of Australia is sure to awe, whether viewed on board the legendary Ghan from Darwin to Adelaide or the Indian Pacific from Sydney to Perth.

The Ghan takes you through the 1,850 miles of Australia’s arid red center in 48 hours.

The highlight of the 2,700-mile journey of the Indian Pacific is crossing the Nullarbor Plain, the longest straight stretch of railroad in the world (297 miles). Beautiful sunsets, mesmerizing red dirt and the odd kangaroo dot the landscape over three days.

Tickets for the Ghan are $460 in the Red Kangaroo section and $1,280 in the Gold Kangaroo and for the Indian Pacific, $450 and $1,260, respectively.

Tags: train journeys, trains, orient express, travel

Viral video: Bob, Ed, where are you?

Monday January 19, 2009 8:16 AM By Sean Joseph

If these goats don't find Bob or Ed soon, they may have heart attacks.

Tags: viral video, television, goats, bob, ed

Rahm's shocker

Monday January 19, 2009 7:11 AM By Emily Ngo

The New York Times magazine portraits are gorgeous, but it appears that President-elect Barack Obama's chief of staff, Rahm Emanuel, is putting up the shocker. An etiquette no-no, indeed. Do you think he know-knows?

Addendum: My dear word, it appears poor Rahm's finger is partially amputated. I should have believed the rumors.

— Emily Ngo

Tags: politics

Harlemites say Obama's inauguration is MLK's dream come true

Sunday January 18, 2009 5:30 PM By Marlene Naanes

By Marlene Naanes

mnaanes@am-ny.com

At a popular Barack Obama souvenir stand in Harlem, a button featuring the president-elect and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is one of the fastest-selling items leading up to the inauguration.

The button’s popularity is symbolic of a sentiment rolling through Harlem and the rest of the country as Obama’s ascension approaches, and as it happens, falls the day after the nation celebrates King’s legacy.

“Just the fact that Martin Luther King fought for us, it’s a special day,” said Gina Limehouse, 41, of Harlem. “He had a dream, and the dream came true. It might not have been when he wanted it, but that day came.”

Beyond just a button, Obama himself seemed to invoke King yesterday, addressing concert-goers at the base of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., the same place King gave his “I Have a dream” speech more than 45 years ago. Some in Harlem yesterday thought Obama’s inauguration was so historic, they wished it also had been declared a national holiday.Sajuan Scott, 14, said he’d treat Tuesday as a holiday by staying home from school to watch the inauguration ceremony and festivities on television.

“It’s like Martin Luther King had a dream about black people having rights and then the day after [his birthday], it’s actually happening -- it just falls into place,” the teenager said. “I never thought an African American could even run for president. It shows everything can happen.”

For several people in Harlem yesterday, the coincidental chronology of the MLK holiday and the inauguration of the first black president was bittersweet.

“The man [King] fought for so long, and he died trying to bring change,” said Leonard Campbell, 36. “Now he finally got change. It’s shouldn’t have taken this long.”

Others said King’s dream has not been fulfilled — yet.

“We still have a whole lot more to do,” said Tory Liferidge, 31, of the Youth and Young Adult Pastor at First Corinthian Baptist Church in southwest Harlem. “We don’t want to lose ourselves in the moment and forget, especially as we celebrate Dr. King.”

For some folks, Obama’s inauguration following King’s holiday was no fluke.

“I don’t think it’s a coincidence at all,” said Katrina Roberts, 18, as she left First Corinthian yesterday. “It’s something that’s been in the making for a long time. I think that God planned it that way.”

Tags: martin luther king, barack obama, harlem, politics

Some sad to see Bush go

Sunday January 18, 2009 5:20 PM By Marlene Naanes

By Marlene Naanes

mnaanes@am-ny.com

George W. Bush will leave office tomorrow with one of the lowest approval ratings of a United States president, and in New York City, land of liberals, it’s safe to say he’s even less popular.

Yet some New Yorkers are upset Bush’s tenure is coming to an end and feel his approval rating is a mere snapshot of public opinion at the end of eight years filled with some of the toughest challenges any president has faced.

“The verdict of history is much more meaningful than what the current approval ratings reflect,” said Richard Brownell, a member and former president of the New York Young Republican Club. “With that in mind, though, I keep reading how historians around the country are saying that Bush was the worst president ever when we haven't even had the requisite time to reflect on the man's policies and actions. Have they forgotten about James Buchanan, Andrew Johnson, Jimmy Carter?”

amNewYork caught up with New Yorkers who are sad to see the 43rd president go and asked them what they’ll miss most.Brownell, 36, of downtown Manhattan

“I will miss Bush's demeanor, his attitude, his folksy sense of humor,” he said. “He has a true approachability to him that you rarely see in politicians.”

Brownell will also miss Bush’s determined way of making decisions, that he did not agonize over each one, even the bad ones.

“You have to lead the country, not a debate team,” he said. “Bush knew that difference. His predecessor did not. I'm not sure his successor does, either.”

Matthew Hindin, 27, Murray Hill

Like many Bush supporters, Hindin credits Bush with keeping the country safe after 9/11. It’s the “No. 1 responsibility” of any president, he said.

“I remember the week or so after 9/11 every single American, if asked, was pretty sure there would be attacks again,” he said. “Through a lot of controversial but courageous decisions…. President Bush did what he had to, making courageous but difficult decisions to prevent an attack on American soil and to protect the lives of Americans here and abroad.”

Hindin, who admits he voted for Al Gore in 2000, said Bush’s straightforward honesty won him over.

“What I detected…is that maybe he doesn’t have the fanciest words…[but] I see a simple human honesty that comes through.”

David Laska, 21, of the East Village

Laska, a New York University junior and treasurer of the school’s College Republicans organization, is sad to see Bush go, but he’s more upset by the cloud of negativity that has hung over him.

“I don’t think he didn’t do such a bad job as people say,” Laska said. “I think his big legacy is that he was very successful in leading the country after Sept. 11. His approval rating was through the roof. He kept this country safe.”

While Laska supports Bush, he wouldn’t want him to serve a third term, even if it was possible.

“He’s lost any political capital to do anything,” he said. “In any event, the country was founded on the peaceful transition of power. “

Gail Allen, 30, Hell’s Kitchen

Allen, the secretary of the New York Young Republicans, will miss Bush’s tendency to “stick to his guns,” an attribute that made him unpopular with many others.

“When every step that you make is always judged upon…that pressure has to build on you,” she said. “He seems to me as the type of guy who never let that pressure get to him.”

Now that Bush will be gone and a republican will not be succeeding him, Allen said Republicans will do what Democrats have for the past eight years.

“We are the new opposition, so to speak,” she said. “Now we’re the ones to rise up and start raising our voices.”

Tags: bush, republicans, president, politics

Extreme Commuter: the west Bronx to Long Island

Sunday January 18, 2009 5:09 PM By Marlene Naanes

By Marlene Naanes

mnaanes@am-ny.com

Young husband and father Melvin Windley endures an almost 2 ½ hour weekday commute to work and a hefty three-hour haul for overtime on Saturday to provide for his family.

Windley, 22, crosses the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens and Long Island by foot, subway and bus to get to his job in medical billing at North Shore Cardiology in Great Neck. The west Bronx resident said he’s been trekking there for a year and a half to support his wife and 20-month-old-son.

“Someone has to make the sacrifice and someone has to get those bills paid and it’s me,” Windley said. “I have to go out there and bear that commute.”

Windley avoids a costly Long Island Rail Road monthly pass by taking several subway lines to Flushing. There, he hops on a Long Island Bus to Great Neck.The bus is rarely on time and sometimes breaks down, adding an extra 45 minutes to his commute, he said. Its Saturday schedule is the most unpredictable, but taking it saves him a $150 monthly LIRR ticket.

“Not only is it expensive, it’s not really that much shorter,” he said of the commuter railroad.

Despite the grueling commute, Windley is happy for his job, which seemingly came about through divine intervention a month after his son was born.

“I didn’t even remember applying for these guys,” he said. “I felt like it was a calling from God or something.”

The cons of the trip include bad weather and having to carry two pairs of shoes in the winter so he can hike through heavy snow on Long Island.

“It’s almost like going to gym class or something,” he quipped.

However, the commute also gives Windley, who supplements his income performing Christian rap, time to compose music. Along two of his subway lines, he sees New York’s baseball stadiums come alive during the summer.

“It’s really exciting just to hear the crowd and see the flashing lights,” he said. “Not only is it exiting to watch the game, it’s like a game on the train with the people who are going to the game.”

And one stretch of his Long Island bus commute gives him something living in the congested city can’t.

“The atmosphere is a little like being in the forest,” he said. “It’s like a trip past heaven.”

If you would like to have your extreme commute profiled, contact Marlene Naanes. For more amNewYork videos, go to our youtube channel.

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The commute:

5:30 a.m. Wake up.

6:45 a.m. Leave home and head to the No. 4 train.

7:30 a.m. Get off at 59th Street station and transfer to the N.

7:45 a.m. Get off at Queensboro Plaza and transfer to the No. 7.

8:10 a.m. Get off at the Flushing station.

8:23 a.m. Get on a Great Neck-bound Long Island bus.

9:05 a.m. Arrive at work.

4:58 p.m. Leave work.

5:05 Catch Flushing-bound Long Island bus.

6 p.m. Take the No. 7 train to Grand Central.

6:40 p.m. Get on a Bronx-bound No. 4 train.

7 p.m. Get off at the Mt. Eden Avenue station and walk home.

Tags: extreme commuter, bronx, long island, great neck, transit

Eight years of Dubya: From the recount to Iraq

Sunday January 18, 2009 3:54 PM By Emily Ngo

By Emily Ngo

It seems few Americans are sad to see Dubya go.

President George W. Bush’s approval rating hovers at 34 percent — the lowest rate since Richard Nixon’s presidency. Experts, however, warn against “misunderestimating” how he’ll be remembered.

“History may cut him some slack,” said political analyst Costas Panagopoulos, director of Fordham University’s Center for Electoral Politics and Democracy. “Bush faced completely different challenges than other presidents.”

In his farewell address, Bush said he “acted with the best interests of our country in mind,” and few experts dispute this. “He was a very idealistic guy who took up big issues, and sometimes the ideas were too big for him,” said Carl Cannon, co-author of “Reagan’s Disciple: George W. Bush’s Troubled Quest for a Presidential Legacy,” “but his heart was in the right place.”

Here’s a look at eight years of events that may shape the Bush legacy, for better or worse:

The Florida recount

In 2000, the former Texas governor squeaked past Democratic rival Al Gore, winning Florida and the presidency in a controversial blur of butterfly ballots.No Child Left Behind

Bush’s ambitious effort to hold schools accountable earned bipartisan nods. “He got Republicans in the game on it,” Cannon said. “Education became a federal issue, not just a state and local issue.”

9/11

After an unprecedented terror attack in 2001, Bush urged confidence in the country’s security and briefly revitalized its economy. “He finds his footing as a wartime president,” Cannon said, “then he rallies the country in a way it needs to be rallied.”

The Patriot Act

The act challenged civil liberties and allegedly paved the way for warrantless wiretapping. Vice President Dick Cheney said it has helped to keep the U.S. safe, and “even Bush’s worst detractors will tell you that it’s possible that statement is true,” said Cannon, the Washington bureau chief for Reader’s Digest.

The war in Iraq

The U.S. invades Iraq in 2003 and overthrows dictator Saddam Hussein, but the failure to find WMDs sets off a deep unpopularity for the war. Further hurting Bush’s case: More than 4,200 U.S. soldiers have died and the occupation continues.

Hurricane Katrina

FEMA’s inadequate response to the 2005 storm is among the factors blamed in 1,800-plus deaths in New Orleans and beyond. “We essentially lost a major United States city in the modern era,” said political analyst and “Party Crashing” author Keli Goff.

The faltering economy

The Bush administration’s tax cuts and unbridled spending likely lent a hand to the $1.2 trillion federal deficit. “His policies were more favorable to upper-income level Americans than the middle class,” Panagopoulos said. “He has increased the income inequality in this country.”

Tags: president george w. bush, iraq, politics

New Yorkers head to Washington

Sunday January 18, 2009 2:20 PM By Pete Catapano

By Heather Haddon

Special to amNewYork

When Anne Trumble advertised her Inauguration Day carpool on-line, she never expected to receive 50 responses from as far away as California and Great Britain.

“I had to upgrade the rental to a minivan,” said Trumble, 32, of Park Slope, who picked up five strangers from Grand Army Plaza yesterday.

The chance to witness history tomorrow has sent New Yorkers scrambling for ways to get to the National Mall for the swearing in of Barack Obama as the 44th president.In the last two weeks, more than a dozen ads with subject lines like “Carpool to/from D.C. - yes we can!” sprung up on craigslist.org. Discount bus companies added trips to Washington, D.C., and a dozen inaugural charter tours are offering perks like cocktails, disco lights and independent films on their trips.

“You don’t want that excitement to die down on the drive,” said Stephanie Cadet, 25, of East Flatbush, who filled a dozen “Inauguration Day Party Buses” leaving from all five boroughs.

About 10,000 buses are expected to descend on Washington, D.C. for the historic ceremony. Seats on several discount bus lines between New York City and the nation’s capital sold out weeks ago.

BoltBus has since added 10 trips to and from Washington, D.C. today and tomorrow.

Additionally, three companies leaving from Chinatown have extra buses ready beginning at 1:30 a.m. tonight, said an attendant for the Chinatown Bus ticket agency.

Elizabeth Doctor, a 24-year-old teacher from Morningside Heights, left Saturday on the $25 Vamoose Bus from Penn Station.

“I think it’s going to be an absolutely spectacular moment in history,” said Doctor, who planned to call her Bronx students from the parade tomorrow.

Startup charter buses have filled hundreds of seats with New Yorkers eager to attend the event — no matter the cost.

A Baltimore entrepreneur, for example, sold dozens of $250 tickets in New York for a Mercedes Benz coach and dinner buffet after the swearing-in ceremony.

Neal Kellman, a pilot by day who organized a $175 package deal for a charter bus and accommodations, said he received most of his calls in the last week.

“I’m becoming the most popular man in New York,” said Kellman, 31, of East Flatbush.

For creative types, the Galapagos Art Space in Brooklyn will send off its bus with a “Bon Voyage Bush” party tonight. Attendees are encouraged to dress in cruise attire and play games like “lame rubber ducky,” said administrator Katie Wagner.

At least 1 million people are expected to attend the inauguration. Doctor, the Bronx teacher, hadn’t squared away her return trip, but wasn’t worried.

“We can make signs saying ‘New York or bust,’” Doctor said. “I would not miss this for the world.”

Tags: obama, inauguration, politics

Morrison Hotel Gallery keeps rock alive at old CBGB spot

Sunday January 18, 2009 1:58 PM By Garett Sloane

The Morrison Hotel Gallery on the Bowery is the second in the city. The first is on Prince Street in SoHo.

By Lana Bortolot

Special to amNew York

Morrison Hotel Gallery is helping to keep rock — and art — alive at the old CBGB.

The gallery on the Bowery, where the former punk-rock club and its art gallery used to be, sells some of the most classic images in music history.

The Morrison Hotel brand was formed seven years ago by Peter Blachley, a former record industry executive, Rich Horowitz, an independent record store owner, and Henry Diltz, a photographer with a deep archive of famous images. One of Diltz’s most famous album covers, The Morrison Hotel, shot for The Doors, was the inspiration for the gallery name.The owners’ first gallery is on Prince Street in SoHo, but they now have locations in La Jolla, Calif.; Los Angeles; Manhasset, Long Island; and the latest is at the old CBGB space.

Blachley said the opportunity to expand the brand in a historic place brought their gallery concept full circle.

There are famous photographs of music legends from Miles Davis to Beck, and the gallery sells the works of top photographers, from jazz photographer Herman Leonard to Janette Beckman.

Blachley said there is a hot market for the type of music memorabilia he is dealing in.

“I knew that people would have an emotional reaction to the images, but we really did it as something fun to do,” Blachley said. “We soon realized that based on what we saw in people’s interest and sales, we were generating enough to expand.”

The heavily trafficked Prince Street storefront generates the most sales, Blachley said.

“SoHo is completely different from the Bowery in that it’s very sophisticated and draws people from all over the world,” Blachley said. “We have a lot of European customers who have a specific interest in owning a piece of American rock ’n’ roll history.”

One of the best sellers at the moment is a Frank Stefanko black-and-white portrait of a young Bruce Springsteen leaning against his 1960 Corvette. The last of 25 is priced at $12,000.

Blachley said sales in the city have increased an average of 20 percent per year, but he expects the global economic slump will affect his sales numbers.

Photographers who deal with the gallery have instant credibility in the industry, Beckman said.

“If I’m talking to a label and say I’m with Morrison, it’s like a badge of honor,” the photographer said.

Tags: morrison hotel, morrison hotel gallery, cbgb, photographs, miles davis, beck, henry diltz, frank stefanko, herman leonard, the doors, bowery, soho, small business, arts, retail, manhattan, history, economy

Bloomberg headed to D.C. with family of late Obama aide

Sunday January 18, 2009 1:23 PM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

Mayor Michael Bloomberg is headed to Washington for the inauguration of Barack Obama, and he is bringing some special guests.

Obama will take the mother and the widow of Terence Tolbert, 44, a city Department of Education employee and Obama campaign aide who died of a heart attack two days before the election.

He was on leave from his city job and was working as the Obama campaign director in Nevada.

Tolbert’s mother, Carolyn, and his wife, Freida, will sit with Bloomberg at the swearing-in Tuesday.

Tomorrow, Bloomberg will address the U.S. Conference of Mayors.

Tags: politics

Top 10 tips for landing a job (really!)

Sunday January 18, 2009 12:14 PM By Lucy Blatter

By Lucy Cohen Blatter

Brenda Greene, author of “Get the Interview Every Time: Proven Strategies of Fortune 500 Hiring Professionals,” insists that today’s job market is not hopeless.

“Some industries — like the financial and real estate industries — have been slammed and probably aren’t hiring, but some — like pharmaceutical and environmental companies — are thriving,” she said. “You need to be poised to be hired.”

Greene offered 10 tips for landing a job in this difficult environment:

1. Start looking. If layoffs are rumored, don’t wait. Start testing the waters.

2. Research a company before you send a resume. Be sure you know how they want to receive resumes and how to proceed with the application process.

3. Take cues from the job posting. Use keywords from the job posting in your cover letter and on your resume.4. Always send a cover letter. Otherwise, it’ll look like you just sent hundreds of resumes out to whoever was hiring.

5. Make two versions of your resume. Have a plain text version as well as one with design elements. This way you can be sure there won’t be compatibility problems and all employers can read it.

6. Don’t just list responsibilities. Verifiable numbers and specific accomplishments make more of an impression than a list of tasks.

7.Keep the resume short. If you’re a recent college graduate, it should not be longer than one page. If you are a more seasoned professional, two pages is the max.

8. Check everything. Make sure your cover letter and resume are free of typos. Ask someone else to proof your resume before you send it.

9. Be persistent. If you’ve submitted your resume online and haven’t gotten a response, contact someone else at the company. Follow multiple leads.

10. Use free time wisely. Brush up on your technology skills. Join industry and alumni associations, too.

Tags: brenda greene, fortune 500 companies, careers

Viral video: Ultimate domino effect

Sunday January 18, 2009 11:00 AM By Sean Joseph

No matter how long it took to set up 30,000 dominoes, the best part is knocking them down.

Tags: viral video, television, dominoes

For Bloomberg, Applebee's beckoned

Sunday January 18, 2009 9:57 AM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

He may be proposing massive spending cuts to city agencies across the board, but when it comes to digging into his own pocket, Mayor Michael Bloomberg is a generous tipper.

Following his state of the city speech Thursday at Brooklyn College, Bloomberg ate at an Applebee's across the street from the auditorium, where he picked up the $73.30 check for the party of six and left a nice tip, said Zane Tankel, the CEO of Apple Metro, which runs the local franchise.

"The server was very happy with the tip," Tankel told reporters just after the mayor left (and about a half hour before a US Airways plane made an emergency landing in the Hudson River, diverting attention and news coverage from the speech).

Tankel declined to say what the tip was (he noted that the IRS requires servers only to declare 8 percent and said he didn't want to get anyone in trouble) but the New York Post's Page Six reported it was $20.

Bloomberg had a hamburger (no cheese), french fries and a diet Pepsi, said Tankel.The choice of Applebee's was made not so much because the mayor had a particular hankering for a burger (though he ate everything on his plate and some fries off someone else's) but because Tankel, a Brooklyn native, opened the restaurant three weeks ago, providing 250 jobs for local residents at a time when many employers are laying people off.

When Tankel opened an Applebee's in Bed-Stuy a year and a half ago, Bloomberg cut the ribbon, an expression of appreciation to Tankel for investing in a community that hadn't always enjoyed the fruits of the then-surging economy.

Of course, not everyone was so welcoming. That first night, Tankel said, someone threw a rock through the window.

Tags: city hall dispatch

Drink your way around the world on a Metrocard

Friday January 16, 2009 4:15 AM By Julie Gordon

By Tracy Wallach

The economy has seen better days — but that’s no reason to bag

dreams of world travel. You can imagine you’re in far parts of the

world by using our jet-lag-free nightlife itinerary.

Eight Mile Creek and The Creek Bar

240 Mulberry St., btwn Prince and Spring sts., 212-431-4635

This Aussie restaurant and bar in NoLita keeps the rugby game on,

the kanga skewers cooking and the Foster’s flowing. Visitors can

head out back to the outdoor gar-den for an authentic Aussie BBQ.

As the evening heats up, venture downstairs to The Creek Bar

and continue sipping Australian wines and brews served up by

bartenders from Down Under.

Kush

191 Chrystie St., btwn Stanton and Rivington sts., 212-677-7328

As owner Mark Osborne puts it, hookah bar Kush boasts “a

journey through the Silk Routes, starting in North Africa and

winding through East Africa, the mideast, India and the Near-

East.” Inside, Moroccan tile tables complement Indian carved teak,

and an Indonesian Buddha head and Afghani woodwork enhance

the out-of-city feel of the bar. Patrons can buy a private hookah

($30, with discounts offered on some nights). Hookah pipes are available to

customers in 20 different flavors.Pravda

281 Lafayette St. at Prince St., 212-226-4944

Pravda may be located on Lafayette Street, but a swig or two of vodka will

have you convinced you’re in Moscow. The place offers more than 70 varieties — 10

are house-infused. In addition to authentic fare, including blini with caviar,

the decor is unmistakably Russian — right down to the lamps designed to resemble the streetlights of Moscow.

Radegast hall & Biergarten

113 N. Third St., btwn Berry St. and Wythe Ave., Williamsburg, 718-963-3973

One of the first and few remaining Austro-Hungarian beer gardens in the tri-state area, Radegast Hall & Biergarten offers an authentic Central European

experience in the heart of Williamsburg. An outdoor garden comes complete with a sizzling grill and a retractable roof for colder months. A wide selection

of premium European beers (40 bottled and 13 on draft) hails from Germany, Austria, Belgium and Czechoslovakia. Slovakia-born owners Andrej Ivanov and

Ivan Kohue have tried to recreate an Austria-Hungarian feel, and

Ivanov promises that patrons can “experience Oktoberfest every

weekend.”

Sala

344 Bowery at Great Jones St., 212-979-6606

Sala One-nine

35 W. 19th St., btwn Fifth and Sixth aves., 212-229-2300

Sala’s tapas, raciones and delicious sangria are rooted in traditional Spanish casual fare. Owner Michael Jannetta’s goal was to keep things as authentically Spanish as possible; the menu, decor and atmosphere derive inspiration from the Bass

Country, Andalusia, the Central Planes and Valencia.

Tags: bars, restaurants

Sully, it's never too soon to have a Facebook fan page

Thursday January 15, 2009 3:40 PM By Emily Ngo

Chelsey B. "Sully" Sullenberger: Hero commercial airline captain, former Air Force fighter pilot, safety consulting firm manager ... Facebook fan club magnet. Why not?

— Emily Ngo

City hails veteran pilot as hero

Thursday January 15, 2009 2:50 PM By Emily Ngo

By Emily Ngo

A former Air Force fighter pilot saved more than 150 lives Thursday, but inspired an entire city.

Praise was heaped on Chelsey B. Sullenberger, who skillfully steered an Airbus A320 to relative safety on the Hudson River after both of its engines had blown out.

“If there’s ever been a miracle, this is a miracle,” said veteran flight instructor Gregory Keshishian. “For him to … put the plane down apparently perfectly takes a great amount of skill and good judgment.”

The pilot and flight crew avoided fatalities with a technique called ditching, in which the plane must “land perfectly flat like a pancake on the water,” said Keshishian, of Manhattan.

If the plane had dug its wing tips or nose below the water’s surface, it would have immediately submerged, he said.

Sullenberger, 57, who has more than 40 years of flight experience and runs a safety consulting firm, remained calm under pressure.“He skidded — unbelievably smoothly — just skidded right in front of us and just skimmed the water,” said Roseann Needleman, 59, who saw the water landing from her apartment on West 52nd Street and 10th Avenue.

Even after he evacuated the 150 passengers and four other crew members aboard the US Airways flight the Sullenberger walked around the plane twice to check for victims before he himself got off, according to Mayor Bloomberg.

It’s no wonder Sullenberger had several Facebook fan clubs by Thursday evening.

The mayor added the flight crew would not speculate on the cause of the crash, but reports say a flock of birds blew out the plane’s engines.

“I give all the credit to the flight crew. They made the right decisions,” said Alan Yurman, a former National Transportation Safety Board investigator. “This was very lucky and very miraculous.”

Keshishian, who has 30 years of flight experience, agreed: “We all train for this but very, very few people do it, and it’s not something you would ever want to do.”

Ryan Chatelain contributed to this story.

Plane lands in Hudson River after engines are disabled by bird strike; all safely evacuated

Thursday January 15, 2009 10:37 AM By Rolando Pujol

Passengers in an inflatable raft move away from an Airbus 320 US Airways aircraft that has gone down in the Hudson River this afternoon. More photos after jump. (AP Photo/Bebeto Matthews)

amNY staff reports

Send your photos here.

A heroic pilot skillfully glided his disabled US Airways jet onto the Hudson River Thursday afternoon after a flock of birds disabled both its engines. All passengers and crew were safely evacuated.

Flight 1549 took off at 3:03 p.m. from LaGuardia Airport and was en route to Charlotte, N.C. when it made a remarkably smooth emergency landing on the river minutes later near West 48th Street in Manhattan. The Airbus A320 soon became partially submerged, its nose still visible, and floated down the river as ships and emergency responders converged to rescue the passengers, dozens of whom scrambled onto the wings.

Most passengers suffered minor injuries, including hypothermia from exposure to the 40-degree Hudson River waters. But most passengers never touched the water, officials said.

"It would appear that the pilot did a masterful job of landing the plane in the river, and then making sure everybody got out," Mayor Michael Bloomberg said at a news conference. Bloomberg talked to the pilot, Chelsey B. "Sully" Sullenberger, who the mayor said walked up and down the plane twice before getting out to ensure that no one was left on board.

There were 150 passengers, two pilots and three flight attendants aboard, according to US Airways CEO Doug Parker.

“We heard what sounded like a bomb went off. There was a spray of water. When it settled down, you could actually see a plane. It looked like a commuter plane. About 15 second later, both wings were full of people. Some debris was in the water,” said Ben Bridges, 20, who was surveying historic planes at the Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum when he witnessed the "fairly smooth" emergency landing.

The sinking plane was quickly surrounded by rescue boats and ferries as the massive rescue effort immediately began. The plane floated south of West 30th Street within about 20 minutes of the landing.

'At first it was chaos'

Passenger Jeff Kolodjay, 31, of Norwalk, Conn., was in seat 22A and spoke of people hitting their heads against the roof when the plane crashed.

“The left engine just blew. I was looking right at it, because I was right there.”

He added, “The pilot said you’ve got to brace for a hard impact.”

He said it hit the water and everybody’s heads hit the ceiling.

“People were bleeding all over the place. I was scared as s***. At first, it was chaos. Everybody was kind of orderly. But I said ‘relax, relax, women and children first’.”

After the crash, the wings started filling up and then people started getting onto life rafts. He said he smelled gas and there was a little girl behind him that was scared.

Before they went down, “we thought we were going to circle around, but we didn’t have time. A couple of ladies got some pretty bad leg injuries.”

He thinks there were about five life rafts. Women and children got on first and then the men did. “I think everybody made it on.”

A lot of the rafts started sinking a little bit; his did but it wasn’t as bad as the others.

'Heroic' pilot heralded

The pilot was earning accolades for his handling of the landing.

“The pilot did an excellent job of choosing a landing site, happened to be in the river. He did an excellent job of ditching the aircraft. As a result, we have a hundred some odd people that are rescued," Alan Yurman, a former National Transportation Safety Board investigator, told NY1.

Gregory Keshishian, a certified flight instructor and master flight instructor with 30 years of experience, called the landing a "heroic" and "fantastic display of airmanship."

“If there’s ever been a miracle, this is a miracle," he said.

Keshishian continued, "An airliner like this is a very large, heavy piece of machinery as you can imagine, for him to be able to so quickly after takeoff, navigate to the river and line up with the river and put the plane down apparently perfectly takes a great amount of skill and good judgment.

An unprecedented accident

Yurman said bird strikes involving planes are not unprecedented, but they have never caused as much damage as this afternoon's incident.

"Once the bird strikes take out both engines, you don’t have any power anymore. You can’t go anywhere," Yurman told NY1.

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating.

A quick response by water

Witness Alex Wilson, 20, who with his friend Bridges was aboard the Intrepid, said the first boat out there was a New York Waterway ferry. He said boats responded pretty quickly. A police helicopter was on the scene about a minute later, Wilson said.

“Inflatable slides went out in 15-20 seconds. Immediately, there was people out on the wings,” Bridges said.

Roseann Needleman, 59, watched the plane go down from her apartment on West 52nd Street and 10th Avenue. She was stunned by how smooth the landing was.

"Sure enough he skidded, unbelievably smoothly, just skidded right in front of us and just skimmed the water. And within three seconds, the doors popped open, and the rafts exploded out – they opened up. And people started to fill the rafts, and then people started to walk on the wings. And they just waited there. They were just floating in the middle of the river.”

Families are gathering at an information center set up by the Port Authority at the LaGuardia Airport Crowne Plaza Hotel. Families can call 1-800-679-8215 for information.

Updates coming.

This story was reported by Marlene Naanes, Rolando Pujol, Ryan Chatelain, Emily Ngo and Lucy Blatter. It was written by Pujol.

Boats surround the sunken plane, with a wing still visible, off 33rd Street in Manhattan. (Photo by Rolando Pujol)

(Photo by Kristy May and Roseann Needleman)

Viral video: Impacting footage

Thursday January 15, 2009 10:21 AM By Sean Joseph

This reporter spends too much time looking at the camera and doesn’t see the pole right in front of him until it’s too late.

Tags: viral video, television

Mayor wants to spend $10 billion to create jobs

Thursday January 15, 2009 8:00 AM By Mae Cheng

By Jason Fink

Mayor Michael Bloomberg laid out a plan for creating jobs that includes a slew of new spending, even as the city steep record deficits.

In his eighth state of the city address, delivered at Brooklyn College, Bloomberg is proposing $10 billion in public works spending, including a new police precinct in Staten Island, a $100 million renovation of the Hunts Point produce terminal and a new beer distribution facility in Red Hook.

Bloomberg also proposed surveillance cameras in high-crime areas, special police monitoring of the top 12 quality of life offenders in each borough and a host of new restrictions against gun dealers.

Bloomberg also vowed to enact legislation to require existing buildings to improve energy efficiency, which he said would be the nations first such law.

"The city will create its own green jobs by investing 900 million over the next nine years to retrofit city schools, hospitals, and other buildings with new energy systems. That work will support 1,000 jobs in the construction industry, save tax taxpayers money and help us meet our goal of reducing city govt's carbon footprint 30 percent by 2017."

Tags: michael bloomberg, jobs, budget, deficit, crime

Brownstones in Brooklyn defy real estate bust

Wednesday January 14, 2009 3:43 PM By Garett Sloane

By Rebecca Wolfson

Special to amNewYork

They’re old, they’re beautiful and they’ve got character: Brooklyn brownstones are still hot properties even as the rest of the housing market flounders.

The median sales price of a one- to three-family Brooklyn brownstone was $1,287,500 in the fourth quarter of 2008, a 12 percent rise from the same period in 2007, according to the latest report from Miller Samuel Inc. and Prudential Douglas Elliman. Overall, the median price in Brooklyn was $490,000, down 7.5 percent from the year before.

The reason for the disparity is clear to most people who track real estate: “It’s a niche market and it has a serious following,” said Jonathan Miller of Miller Samuel.Sales of brownstones only made up about 3 percent of total sales in Brooklyn in the fourth quarter. The short supply is one reason the market is still strong.

“You can build new high rises. Out in the suburbs you can build single-family homes. But there are only so many brownstone houses,” said Gigi Zimmerman, real estate sales manager at Brownstone Real Estate LLC.

Zimmerman not only is in the brownstone market, she owns one.

“I live in a house that was built in 1851 — there’s something very special about that,” she said. “It has details, fireplaces, a history.”

Desiree Jeffcoat, 37, became a brownstone Brooklyn resident when she closed on a $1.55 million home in December. She and her husband moved from Atlanta.

“I like the character and style of living in a brownstone more than a condo,” Jeffcoat said.

The one aspect of the market that brownstones are not immune from is the credit freeze, which is making it difficult for prospective homebuyers to find financing. There were only 60 brownstones sold last quarter, down 36.2 percent from the year before. Overall, sales activity in Brooklyn was down 42.7 percent.

Jeffcoat experienced that frigidity in the credit market.

“The financing process was painful,” she said. It involved bi-weekly updates on her and her husband’s bank accounts. “This was my fourth mortgage and I’ve never gone through something like this.”

Tags: brownstones, brooklyn, brownstone brooklyn, real estate, fourth quarter 2008, prudential douglas elliman, miller samuel inc., jonathan miller, brownstone real estate, economy

MTA officials feel the heat at public hearing on hikes

Wednesday January 14, 2009 3:25 PM By Rolando Pujol

By Marlene Naanes

Hundreds of people braved the brutal cold last night to deliver a blast of heat to MTA officials at the first public hearing over planned fare increases and service cuts.

“We think that the fare hikes are not necessary,” said Marvin Holland, an MTA worker who gathered with about 50 other protesters outside the Hilton New York in midtown before the hearing began, waving signs that read “Bail out the People.”

Transit riders, advocates and elected officials crowded into a hotel ballroom, where MTA executives and board members listened to an outpouring of anger and frustration.Quinn Raymond, 30, an East Village resident, voiced his outrage over plans to eliminate the M8 bus, which connects the East and West Villages.

“I’ve been riding the M8 since I started first grade in 1984,” said Raymond, who had a petition with 3,000 signatures. “It’s the backbone of our community.”

The MTA, facing a $1.2-billion budget gap, recently presented two fare-hike scenarios.

The first would equally distribute the hike among all fares, increase unlimited MetroCards by about 25 percent, and raise a monthly pass to $103 from $81.

The second would eliminate the bonus on MetroCards and bring the monthly card up to $99. The MTA also proposed doomsday-like service cuts that eliminate some train lines and bus routes while severely limiting others.

The board will vote on the proposals on March 25 and would implement them in June.

At yesterday’s hearing, board chairman Dale Hemmerdinger said he understood riders’ displeasure.

“If we didn’t want to hear what you have to say we wouldn’t hold these hearings,” he said to jeers from the crowd. “We would like to leave the fares just the way they are. We would like to leave the service, that’s why we will be going up to Albany again and again.”

The state Legislature is considering proposals from a governor-appointed commission that would keep fare increases to 8 percent by instituting a payroll tax and putting tolls on East River bridges.

The MTA will hold seven more public hearings. The next one will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Sheraton LaGuardia East Hotel in Flushing.

Anita Romm, 69, of the Bronx, said the higher fares are imposing too much of a burden.

“Middle class and working class people are being squeezed every which way,” she said.

Tags: mta, fare hikes, service cuts, public hearings, transportation, transit

Virginity for sale! Online auction sparks debate

Wednesday January 14, 2009 3:04 PM By Jason Fink

Natalie Dylan

By Jason Fink

Is it a hoax? A publicity stunt? Or just what it looks like: A 22-year-old woman auctioning off her virginity on the Internet.

In any case, the California woman — who goes by the pseudonym Natalie Dylan — has created an online sensation. She is the latest in a line of shocking online hawkers who are selling everything from organs to human eggs.

“It’s going too far, and it’ll go beyond that,” said Katherine Ramos, 35, of Harlem. “It all has to do with morality.”

Whether it’s the kidney or baby that went up for sale on eBay or the man who sold everything he owns for nearly $400,000, the online auction craze has produced some startling offers and responses. Dylan is not even the first woman to sell her virginity online.

Jeremy Saland, a Manhattan criminal defense attorney, said he has seen the Web used for a variety of dubious transactions.

“I have witnessed people selling things ranging from counterfeit money, fake passports and fraudulent diplomas to drugs, stolen electronics and even a tortoise that was an endangered species,” he said.

Though there is nothing novel about selling sex, Dylan’s brazen offer seems emblematic of an age in which virtually anything can be sold and buyers easily found.

“In the world of cyberspace, it’s very disembodied,” said David Salvage, a Manhattan psychologist. “This woman would not do this in her local community center.”While the ethics of selling things like organs online can be debated, legally, there are clear rules: If a person sells or buys something on the Internet that is illegal in the jurisdiction they’re doing it from, they can be charged, Saland explained.

Dylan may have entered a legal gray area. She lives in San Diego, but says she will seal the deal at the Bunny Ranch, a legal brothel in Nevada.

“Assuming this woman is violating the laws of her jurisdiction and a man soliciting her is violating a law in his home state, they are both looking for trouble,” Saland said.

Dylan says she has received more than 10,000 responses to her offer since September, when the auction began, the highest coming in at $3.7 million.

Francisco Gonzalez, 26, of Queens, said he has no problem with what Dylan is doing. In fact, he called her a “good businesswoman.”

“She’s just being smart,” Gonzalez said. “Nowadays, kids are giving it up for nothing.”

Emily Ngo contributed to this story.

Tags: prostitution, online auction, natalie dylan, zany

City Living: West New York

Wednesday January 14, 2009 2:26 PM By Rolando Pujol

A view of the Manhattan skyline from West New York. (Photo: Alana Abel)

By Magdalene Perez

Special to amNewYork

With a total area of 1.4 square miles, and a population of 46,000, West New York is a city in miniature. Located across the Hudson River in the New Jersey Palisades, it has long served as a haven for immigrants and commuters who prefer its lower rents and more relaxed lifestyle to the big city across the water.

In the late 19th century, the manufacturing city was dominated by European immigrants, including Germans, Swedes, Slavs, Armenians and Jews. Today, though one of many Latin American cultures in the city, the Cuban community is still strong.

West New York resident and former mayor Albio Sires now serves as one of a handful of Cuban American representatives in the U.S. congress, and the annual Cuban Parade enlivens Bergenline Avenue each June.

West New York has a split personality. Just two decades ago it had the unenviable distinction of being one of the poorest cities in New Jersey. But an ambitious transformation of the waterfront has changed all that. Now, dozens of high rises have created a gilded coastline boasting luxury living at prices unattainable in New York.Abhi Gupta, an accountant who works in midtown, said he moved to a newly built West New York condo five years ago to escape the city’s high housing prices. Now he appreciates living in the Palisades for more than just its low price.

“It’s quiet, it’s close to New York City and I have more space than in New York,” said Gupta, 32. “It’s the next best thing to living in New York City.”

Gupta is typical of West New York’s newest residents: Young professionals who like the Manhattan skyline views and 15-minute commute to midtown by bus or ferry. But the older West New York still exists, one where two-family homes and walkable streets support a small-town atmosphere, family-owned businesses sell their wares at discount prices on Bergenline Avenue, and the food, culture and music is infused with Latin American culture of all stripes.

FIND IT

West New York is bounded by 67th Street and North Bergen on the north, the Hudson River on the east, 49th Street and Union City on the south and Kennedy Boulevard West on the west.

THE ONE THING YOU MUST DO

See the Hudson River view. Whether you’re perched high in the bluffs or waterside, this is a view of the Manhattan skyline you won’t forget. To try both, start in Donnelly Park, where you can catch a glimpse from eastward-facing benches and coin-operated scopes. Then walk down Hillside Road to Riverwalk Place, where a perfect-for-strolling cul-de-sac abuts the water.

REAL ESTATE

West New York is divided into two parts: the riverfront and the plateau, located west of Boulevard East. In the latter, two-family houses and five-story walkup apartments abound, while the riverfront is dominated by high-rises.

Buyers will find plenty of newly built luxury properties that will seem like a steal compared to New York City prices, according to Coldwell Banker Realtor April Hartmann. Prices range from $189,000 for a studio in a doorman co-op to $3 million for a waterfront townhouse, with many condominiums offering amenities such as a gym, pool and free shuttle buses that will take you to the New York ferry.

“West New York’s a deal,” Hartmann said.

Renters can expect to pay from $980 per month for a one-bedroom in a pre-war building to $7,000 per month for a river-view townhouse, Hartmann said.

To Buy

• Studio in river-view co-op, 24-hour doorman, gym, pool, 650 sq. ft. Listed: $189,900. Sold: $175,000. (Boulevard East)

• One-bedroom, waterfront apartment with pool, club house, basketball court, yoga studio and screening room, 750 sq. ft. Listed: $360,000. Sold: $350,000

• Two-bedroom, two-bath, waterfront townhouse with two pools on property, 1,280 sq. ft. Listed $529,000. Sold: $490,000

• Five-bedroom, two bath single family home. Fully renovated 1913 Tudor colonial. Listed: $649,000. Sold: $590,000. (Near Boulevard East)

• Two-bedroom, two bath waterfront apartment with concierge, indoor parking, pool, gym and conference center, 1,380 sq. ft. Listed: $699,000. Sold: $672,000.

To Rent

• Renovated two-bedroom with high ceilings, living room, dining room and den, $1,600. (Park Avenue and 61st Street)

• Two-bedroom with private garden, $1,500. (65th Street and Boulevard East)

• Three-bedroom, two-bath duplex, with private garden and washer and dryer, $1,900. (64th Street at Boulevard East)

• Studio with hardwood floors, washer and dryer in building, $880 (64th Street near Boulevard East)

• One-bedroom, fully renovated condo, laundry room in building, $1,000 (Monroe Place near 61st Street)

DID YOU KNOW?

• West New York was a filming location for the Will Smith movie “Independence Day”

• “My Chemical Romance” frontman Gerard Way is a former resident

• Bergenline Avenue is the longest commercial avenue in the state

TO EAT

West New York’s high Hispanic population makes eating in the city like taking a culinary tour of Latin America. You will find Salvadorian pupusas, Mexican tamales and Brazilian churrasqueria, to name a few. And the eating doesn’t stop there. With new condo projects sprouting along the river, restaurants like P.F. Chang’s China Bistro chain have followed.

Meson Español

Seafood abounds at this white-tablecloth restaurant, where the owners ply regulars with sangria, fresh clams ($8.50), and lobster ($35) amid a Spanish-villa décor. While not on the menu, try ordering a tortilla (potato omelet) to enjoy this mainstay of Spanish cuisine.

5700 Kennedy Boulevard W.

201-865-5880

Las Palmas

A neighborhood fixture for more than 30 years, Las Palmas serves up Cuban cuisine just like abuelita (grandma) made it. The most popular dish, churrasco, comes in three sizes, $7.95 for “mini,” $15.95 for small, and $23.95 for large, with rice and beans on the side.

6153 Bergenline Ave.

201-861-1400

Teri Teri

The small but slick interior gives this Japanese restaurant an on-the-go feel, but you’ll want to stay for fresh sushi rolls ($4 to $9), beef ramen ($9), and veggie tempura ($7).

5509 Bergenline Ave.

201-325-8374

Yella’s

This submarine shop, just over the North Bergen line, is splashed with bright colors and offers cheap eats. Try a roast beef and gorgonzola sandwich, served on a ciabatta roll, for $4.99.

5905 Kennedy Boulevard W.

201-869-3661

Luna Restaurant

The expansive, dark-lit interior of this Salvadoran restaurant includes a jukebox and bar. Pupusas are $1.25 each, with filling choices such as cheese, beans, meat and pork rinds. Entrees including carne asada ($9.50) and salmon filet ($12) complete the menu.

512 55th St.

201-770-9113

Panaderia El Carretero

A Colombian pastry shop and diner-style restaurant, El Carretero serves up hefty meals at prices that are wallet-friendly. The traditional bandeja paisa piles on steak, sausage, beans, avocado and egg for $10.50. The fresh juice and shake menu includes passion fruit, papaya and South American mamey ($3 each).

3500 Bergenline Ave.

201-863-6681

TO PLAY

Where West New York is strong on food, it lacks in culture and nightlife. Most residents simply get their fun fix in across the water in New York, or in nearby Hoboken. But those who look hard enough will find a few weekend options for dancing, drinks and music.

De Cachet

A bright and newly opened restaurant and lounge, De Cachet hosts some of the classiest (and packed) weekend dance floors this side of Hoboken. Friday night is Ladies’ Night, with a house and hip-hop mix.

512 59th St.

201-553-2817

Casa Del Faro

On Saturdays this river view restaurant pumps a Latin mix of salsa, merengue, bachata and more.

759 Farragut Place

201-854-1004

Sammy’s Bar

Regulars keep it low key at this neighborhood dive.

5400 Park Ave.

201-866-3686

Harbor Bar & Brasserie

Enjoy a late-night view of the Hudson from this riverfront bar in nearby Weehawken.

500 Harbor Boulevard

201-348-4444

TO SHOP

Shoppers flock to Bergenline Avenue to take advantage of a discounted 3.5 percent sales tax available only in the “Urban Enterprise Zone” from 49th to 67th Streets. Big name stores such as Payless ShoeSource and The Children’s Place are here, as well as countless independent clothing, electronics, furniture and other shops.

House of Style

Jeans, jackets and accessories ranging from ECKO to Polo Ralph Lauren fill the racks at this shop, where sales abound.

5612 Bergenline Ave.

201-866-6003

My Day

This shop sells lovely prom and quinceañera gowns, but what really shines are the children’s formal wear, including a boy’s three-piece white tuxedo suit and toddler-sized dresses finished with ribbon flourishes.

5506 Bergenline Ave.

201-974-2222

Food Bazaar

While it may look like any old supermarket on the outside, this grocery store is stocked with a cornucopia of international foodstuffs, from yucca to fresh papaya.

5701 Broadway

201-863-2826

Bambi Baby Store

Better described as a superstore, Bambi’s catch phrase is, “We deliver everything but the baby!” Appropriate for a place where you can find strollers, cribs, furniture, car seats and more.

5409 Bergenline Ave.

201-867-6132

TO SEE

Miller Park

Check out Miller Park for its two basketball courts, tennis courts, playgrounds and walking trails. Then take a peek at Miller Stadium, where Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig took part in exhibition games in the 1930s. Today the minor league stadium is used mostly by Memorial High School.

5701 Jackson St.

201-295-5270

Donnelly Park

Donnelly Park has an Olympic-sized pool, a playground, and basketball courts, but its biggest claim to fame may be the filming of “Independence Day” within its environs. Locals say the spot is unrecognizable after renovations, but look for the chess tables and you’ll be standing where Will Smith once performed.

Boulevard East and 59th Street

201-295-5270

Police Headquarters

You won’t find a plaque commemorating the events, but West New York had a brush with the seedy side in the late 1990s when an FBI investigation led to the arrest of former police chief Alexander V. Oriente and more than a dozen others for operating a racketeering operation. The men accepted money in exchange for protecting illegal gambling, prostitution and after-hours liquor sales, according to the indictment.

428 60th St.

201-295-5000

THE BUZZ

For those who have lived in West New York more than a decade, its rapid waterfront development has been nothing short of astounding. It started in the early 1990s, when city officials, seeking to boost tax revenues, proposed more than two dozen harbor projects, including new luxury high-rise housing, roadways and sewers.

“They’ve built like a little city down there,” said Angela Peña, a 30-year resident. “Even my son says to me, ‘This is not the same place where I was born.’”

The addition of six or seven new communities since 1990 has attracted thousands of white-collar commuters to the city, and more are sure to come. According to former Mayor Albio Sires, the finished waterfront should add 15,000 new residents to the city.

Officials have accomplished their goal of building a new tax base, but some residents complain the new construction is driving housing prices sky high.

“Rent is going up so much,” said Peña, who like 70 percent of the population, rents. “Right now I pay $430 a month, but if I moved they would renovate and rent my apartment for over $1000.”

THE Q & A

Juliana Palomino, 22, has lived in West New York for eight years. She is a student at Bergen Community College.

What attracts people to West New York?

I like the fact that it’s 15 minutes away from New York. It’s diverse, it’s right next to everything, and the view is pretty great from Boulevard East.

How has the neighborhood changed over the years?

There are a lot more buildings now. We’ve got a lot of condominiums, and rent is skyrocketing.

Do you think gentrification will help or hurt the neighborhood?

It sucks, because it pushes people like me out.

Where do people like to hang out?

We have a lot of restaurants. Bergenline is the best place to eat. To hang out, most people go to the city or Hoboken, but I like a place called Harbor Bar (in Weehawken).

What might deter people from moving here?

It’s got its problems. It used to be more violent, but I don’t think it’s like it used to be anymore.

If you could change something what would it be?

I commute by bus, so I would like that to be better. I’d like to see more service, because sometimes you have to wait an hour for another bus. There’s a ferry to New York, but since I commute in the other direction it doesn’t help.

Where do you think the city is headed?

The rent is going to keep getting more expensive. Hopefully there won’t be any more yuppies. I don’t want to see us turn into Hoboken.

If someone had a few hours to visit, what should they do?

Definitely go out to eat and shop. Then you can visit Boulevard East, get a nice view, talk and have a cup of coffee.

THE FACT SHEET

Municipal Building

428 60th St.

201-295-5200

Transportation

Bus

To New York Port Authority: 128, 155,157,168 (Boulevard East) 154 (JFK Boulevard West)

To Jersey City PATH train: 84 (Bergenline Avenue) 88 (JFK Boulevard West)

To Hoboken PATH train: 89, 22 (Bergenline Avenue), 23 (Boulevard East)

Light Rail

To North Bergen/Jersey City: Union City stop on Bergenline Avenue/49th Street

Ferry

Via New York Waterway – Dock at Port Imperial Boulevard and Pershing Road

M to Midtown West 39th Street

W to World Financial Center Vesey Street

11 to Pier 11 Wall Street

Public Library

425 60th St.

201-295-5135

Crime

West New York had four murders, four rapes and 97 robberies in 2007, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Police Department

428 60th St.

201-2 9 5 - 5 0 0 0

Fire Department

428 60th St.

201-295-5220

Schools

Public

PS 1

6129 Madison St.

201-553-4025

PS 2

317 66th St.

201-553-4040

Middle School

201 57th St.

201-553-4160

Memorial High School

5501 Park Ave.

201-553-4110

Private

Our Lady of Libera School

5 8 0 0 K e n n e d y B oulevard W.

201-8 6 4 - 5 5 5 7

St. Joseph of the Palisades High School

5 4 0 0 B r o a d w a y

201- 8 6 4 - 9 7 0 0

Banks

Bank of America

6 0 5 0 B e r g e n l i n e A v e.

Wachovia

4 5 R i v e r w a l k P l ace

201- 8 6 5 - 6 0 2 7

PNC Bank

150 60th St.

201-295-2002

Markets

A&P Supermarket

1 9 A v e nue at P o r t I m p e r i a l No. 2 1

800-9 2 8 - 2 2 7 4

Fiesta Supermarket

5500 Bergenline Ave.

201-348-1178

Tags: city living, west new york, new jersey, real estate, shopping, architecture, history, restaurants, nightlife, latinos, cubans, development, gentrification, immigration, retail

Happy birthday to us: Urbanite turns 1

Wednesday January 14, 2009 1:14 PM By Rolando Pujol

amNY's Urbanite blog turns 1 today. Read our first post here. And here's a month-by-month tour of our coverage of New York City. Thanks for reading.

January 2008

February 2008

March 2008

April 2008

May 2008

June 2008

July 2008

August 2008

September 2008

October 2008

November 2008

December 2008

January 2009

Photo: One of our most popular posts was of this midtown bus shelter that was decked out in Star Wars "light sabers." Read it here. (Photo by Rolando Pujol)

Cheyenne Diner: Saved (again!) and moving to Alabama

Wednesday January 14, 2009 1:03 PM By Rolando Pujol

The Cheyenne Diner on a rainy April 2008 night, just days before it closed. That neon might shine again in Birmingham, Ala. (Photos by Rolando Pujol)

By Marlene Naanes

After the collapse of a Red Hook rescue plan left the historic Cheyenne Diner imperiled again, the shuttered Manhattan greasy spoon has been saved thanks to a little Southern hospitality.

The rail car-style diner could soon serve up home-style cooking in Birmingham, Ala., according to Michael Perlman, who has led the effort to save the Cheyenne, which would become the only free-standing diner in that city.

The fate of the neon-lit Cheyenne Diner, which has been vacant for the past nine months at 33rd Street and Ninth Avenue, sat in the balance after a much-heralded move to Red Hook fell apart. The Manhattan Bridge could not fit the diner by flatbed truck and a move by barge proved very expensive.

After a cry for help, two owners of a Birmingham investment group, Joel Owens and Patti Miller, took a tour of the iconic eatery Wednesday and signed on to move it down South, Perlman said.

“I’m very proud that I located a couple that value the diner’s architectural and cultural history, and they are planning to restore and open it for future generations to cherish,” said Perlman.

The owner of the diner’s lot set a six-week deadline for the building’s removal, Perlman said. The Cheyenne will likely be transported in two pieces on a flatbed truck by a rigger who has moved about 50 diners nationwide.

"Cheyenne's going to be happy," Miller said. "We're going to give it new life."

The Cheyenne could be included in a Birmingham tourist attraction with a special events center and classic car and miniature diner museums, Perlman said. The new owners put down a $1,000 deposit Wednesday. The total cost of the purchase will be $5,000.

The owner of the Cheyenne property, George Papas, had been working closely with Perlman to relocate the diner and avoid destroying it.

Papas, who could not be reached for comment Wednesday, had said he plans to build a residential and commercial development on the site.

Cheyenne: Urbanite coverage:

Cheyenne saved and moving to Red Hook.

Oh, Cheyenne, a lamentation with some night photography

Diner for sale: Got $7,900?

Bid to save Cheyenne

amNY photo galleries

Great NYC diners, past and present

Remembering the Munson Diner

Tags: cheyenne diner, red hook, birmingham, alabama, michael perlman, endangered nyc, preservation, diners, restaurants, real estate, old school, manhattan, development, brooklyn

Warding off the cold: Fruit in a blanket

Wednesday January 14, 2009 10:11 AM By Emily Ngo

You, New Yorker, are undoubtedly bundled up as you walk the streets today (temperatures are in the 20s, and winds make it feel even colder), but you're not the only one who needs to stay warm.

This Crown Heights, Brooklyn, fruit stand throws blankets over its produce to ward off the deep freeze. Yummy?

— Emily Ngo

Tags: brooklyn, weather

Mark your calendar: Upcoming food events

Wednesday January 14, 2009 8:26 AM By Lucy Blatter

Jan. 18-23, Jan. 25-30: NYC Winter Restaurant Week

Over 250 restaurants are participating in the recession-proof dining program this season and more than 100 will be expanding their offerings to Sundays for the first time. Prices remain unchanged, with a three-course prix-fixe lunch costing $24.07 and a three-course dinner costing $35. Reservations are open to the public and many are still available — though going quickly.

Jan. 17-23: Dunkin' Donuts offers “Stars & Stripes” donut

During inaugural week, Dunkin' Donuts customers can enjoy a special new "Stars & Stripes" donut, a frosted donut decorated with red, white and blue star-shaped sprinkles. The new donut is available at participating Dunkin' Donuts shops nationwide for the suggested retail price of 89 cents.January 27: Rock Center Café's Winter Microbrew Beer Dinner

A selection of American ales and lagers will be paired with hearty, seasonal dishes that include duck and wild mushroom ravioli and braised lamb shank. The cost is $52 per person, including tax and gratuity. Guests can make reservations by calling (212) 332-7620.

February 3: Tabasco Cook and Ladder Competition

Ten firefighters from across the country will vie for the title of “America’s Hottest Firehouse Cook” at the Tabasco Cook and Ladder Competition. Local firefighter Jeff Wallen will vie for the $10,000 grand prize with his Hell’s Gate Crab Cake Sandwich.

Every Tuesday: Campo’s All You Can Eat Pizza

Campo (2888 Broadway) is kicking off a new All You Can Eat Pizza promotion every Tuesday. $21.90 per person gets you unlimited signature grilled pizzas, like forest mushroom and ricotta cheese and broccoli rabe and sweet sausage. The deal includes a complimentary salad and dessert, a featured microbrew, and is available for lunch dinner and late night.

Tags: dining events, restaurant week, dunkin' donuts, campo, tabasco, rock center cafe, food

Viral video: 'Hello? Ahhhhh!"

Wednesday January 14, 2009 8:15 AM By Sean Joseph

This guy will wear wrinkled shirts for the rest of his life after mistaking an iron for his cell phone and putting it up to his ear.

Tags: viral video, television

Dining news

Wednesday January 14, 2009 8:08 AM By Lucy Blatter

Pictured: Le Bernardin chef Eric Ripert, City Harvest driver Dave Marshall and City Harvest executive director Jilly Stephens

Le Bernardin and City Harvest team up

Le Bernardin chef Eric Ripert has announced plans to donate $1 for each patron who visits the restaurant and the restaurant’s private event space The Salons to City Harvest.

An additional $1 will be donated for each copy of On The Line, Ripert's new cookbook.

Based on projected patronage, the restaurant estimates a total donation of $100,000 to City Harvest by year-end.

New executive chef at Apiary

Scott Bryan will become executive chef at East Village eatery Apiary.

Best known for his tenure at Veritas, he will launch an entirely new menu within a month.

Along with Chef Bryan’s new menu will be the addition of Apiary’s first chef’s tasting prix fixe.

Tags: le bernardin, eric ripert, city harvest, apiary, restaurants

City's share of Yankee stadium costs double

Tuesday January 13, 2009 2:30 PM By Jason Fink

The 'Y' being lowered into place at the new Yankee Stadium. AP file photo

By Jason Fink

The city’s costs for the new Yankee Stadium have more than doubled in two years, said City Comptroller William Thompson, who accused the Bloomberg administration of low-balling its original estimate.

The capital cost for the city is now $325 million, up from its estimate of $129 million in 2006, the comptroller’s office said today.

“It’s willful. Costs don’t just go up dramatically like this,” said Thompson, a mayoral candidate.

He called the stadium project, which already includes $942 million in tax-exempt bonds, “the latest in a long series of deals where the city does not protect the taxpayer.”

A spokesman for Mayor Michael Bloomberg called Thompson’s complaints “political theater” and questioned why the comptroller, as a member of the Industrial Development Authority board, voted in favor of the stadium deal in 2006.

“It’s hard to believe he doesn’t know . . . New York City is getting back more tax revenue than it will cost and the South Bronx is getting thousands of new jobs and more than $1 billion in private investment,” said the spokesman, Andrew Brent. “He is, after all, the comptroller.”

The authority is to meet on Friday to approve $370 million in additional tax-exempt bonds for the project.

Thompson said he is asking the authority to delay its vote on the additional bonds, and if it does not, he will vote no.In addition, a committee led by Assemb. Richard Brodsky (D-Westchester) has subpoenaed the authority’s chairman, Seth Pinsky, and Yankees President Randy Levine for a hearing tomorrow to deliver documents related to the bonds set for approval Friday.

Brodsky said he was opposed to any public funding for the stadium, particularly at a time when the city is facing painful budget cuts.

“The Yankees are one of the wealthiest corporations in the world and I see no reason they shouldn’t be paying for the stadium,” he said.

A spokeswoman for the team did not return phone calls seeking comment.

News of the comptroller’s findings had other local officials in a fit, questioning why the city is putting up millions of taxpayer dollars for a team that freely throws around money.

“The Yankees have spent $423.5 million on free agents this offseason — for them and the city to ask New York’s hard working taxpayers to foot the ever expanding bill on the new stadium is nonsensical and unfair, especially in difficult economic times,” said Councilman Eric Gioia (D-Queens), a candidate for public advocate.

Tags: yankees, william thompson, stadium, sports, economy, city hall dispatch

AT&T, Verizon Wireless plan new stores in New York City

Tuesday January 13, 2009 2:15 PM By Garett Sloane

Verizon Wireless and AT&T plan to open at least seven new storefronts in the city in 2009. (RJ Mickelson)

By Annie Lok

Special to amNewYork

Benefiting from cheaper rents and growing demand for trendy smartphones, wireless providers AT&T and Verizon plan to expand their city retail presence in 2009.

As banks stop grabbing up retail space and other businesses close, landlords are eager to strike deals with large national companies that have reliable credit, said Robert Gibson, executive director of retail at real estate company Cushman & Wakefield.

“Wireless carriers are logical players to come in,” he said.

AT&T said it plans to open seven company-owned stores this year, in addition to the 55 it already has. Verizon also said it will grow its roster of about 25 shops by at least seven.T-Mobile said it plans to open stores here, but did not provide a number. Sprint said it did not plan new stores for 2009.

AT&T has set its sights on prime locations such as midtown, the Lower East Side and the Upper East Side, and last month it opened a store on the Upper West Side.

Verizon’s strategy relies on what the company called “under-penetrated” areas, such as Washington Heights and Staten Island.

Wireless carriers should benefit from the current rental market, as rates drop and activity slows.

“Landlords are taking a hard look at deals,” said Joseph Isa, a broker at Winick Realty Group.

AT&T and Verizon plan new storefronts in an effort to pinch customers from eachother and weaker competitors, such as T-Mobile and Sprint, according to Ken Hyers, an analyst at Technology Business Research, a group that tracks the telecom industry. They also want to tap relatively affluent New Yorkers.

“The decision to open additional stores in New York is a strategic one to spend their marketing dollars in the areas where they’re most likely to get the best-quality customers,” Hyers wrote in an e-mail.

Tags: at&t, verizon wireless, t-mobile, sprint, smartphones, cushman & wakefield, winnick realty group, new stores, new york city, retail, real estate, economy

The art of taking it slow

Tuesday January 13, 2009 1:40 PM By Lucy Blatter

By Lucy Cohen Blatter

After a long cold January day, there’s nothing better than coming home to a warm meal — especially when a slow cooker’s done all the work.

Unfortunately, slow cookers have never quite achieved culinary respect from foodies. When researching for his book, “Art of the Slow Cooker,” food writer Andrew Schloss found slow-cooker recipes where “the flavors and textures were homogenous. It seemed to me everything was getting overcooked,” he said.So, Schloss set up 12 slow cookers and got started, determined to find enough good recipes to fill his book. In order to appeal to working people, he made sure that most of the recipes could stand up to eight or more hours of cooking.

Schloss found that hard vegetables like beets, carrots and turnips worked very well. So did inexpensive cuts of meat — a bonus for the current economic climate.

It’s the economical nature of Crock-Pot cooking that led Linda Larsen to write “The $7 a Meal Slow Cooker Cookbook.”

“You can use cheaper cuts of meat, like chicken thighs and pork shoulder, and they will automatically work well,” she said.

“If you combine an inexpensive meal with a slow cooker, you’ll never have to go out to eat again. It will do all the work for you,” she said.

Larsen, who owns five slow cookers herself, says the trick is to be careful how much you fill your slow cooker. “In order to make sure it doesn’t burn or dry out you need to make sure that the cooker is at least half full with ingredients and no more than three-fourths full,” she said.

As to absolute slow cooker no-nos, both Schloss and Larsen pointed to chicken breasts. “Anything that you would cook as a quick meal won’t work. Anything you need a crust for won’t either,” Schloss said.

“If you’re making a dish that cannot be overcooked — like soup or pot roast — than it’ll be perfect for a slow cooker,” Schloss said.

“Baked beans are actually much better in a slow cooker, because it keeps all the moisture in. Fruitcakes and moist puddings are great too. Cheesecake works well. It cooks for 8-10 hours and stays creamy all around.”

“Anything that’s dense and moist works well,” he said.

But, Schloss noted, you always need to use a baking pan or a soufflé dish inside a Crock-Pot.

To remedy too much gooiness in cakes, simply put a folded kitchen towel on top of the baking pan and then put the lid in.

While they’ve become increasingly popular, rice cookers can’t be used in the same way slow cookers can, Schloss noted. “They don’t get as hot and, unlike slow cookers, they are designed to turn off automatically once they hit 200 degrees; you can’t brown anything the same way.”

Since the inside of a rice cooker is metal, not ceramic, it doesn’t give off heat as gradually as the slow cooker.

From both a health and culinary standpoint, it’s always better to put food — especially meat — in the slow cooker when it’s already hot.

“Food will taste much more delicious if meat is browned first,” Schloss said.

“Brownness is what makes meat taste good. Boiled meat does not. You want to enjoy hot meat with hot sauce.”

Tags: slow cooker, crock-pot, cooking, andrew schloss, food

Smalls Records documents unique New York City scene

Tuesday January 13, 2009 1:34 PM By Garett Sloane

Luke Kaven hangs backstage during a jazz show at the Fat Cat. (RJ Mickelson)

By Lana Bortolot

Special to amNewYork

Smalls Records, an indie jazz label, started as a way to document the burgeoning bebop scene at an underground city nightspot.

In the mid-1990s, Luke Kaven began recording live shows at Smalls, the Greenwich Village jazz venue. In 2000, he founded the New York-based label, and in 2004 he released the first album.

“The fact that almost all [the artists] worked at Smalls and came up together makes them all historically and artistically interconnected,” Kaven said.The first artist Kaven produced, pianist Frank Hewitt, died before his album was released in 2004, and many critics consider it a seminal piece of work.

“When Luke Kaven began to document the work, he put out some really important stuff that broke through the noise in terms of having an identity,” said jazz journalist Thomas Conrad, of Stereophile magazine and Jazz Times.

Kaven works with about 115 artists and has recorded more than 40 albums. He declined to discuss his total sales, but said the label puts out about 10 albums a year, printing between 15,000 and 20,000 CDs.

For the most part, he does the recording, mixing and marketing on his own.

“The challenge now for any small indie label is to be able to cut expenses and overhead to the absolute minimum,” Kaven said.

The Smalls label is experiencing the same downward trend as industrywide jazz sales, but Kaven has a niche audience and some generous benefactors.

Brandon Stranzl, an investment manager who co-founded the Smalls club, financed two recordings last fall.

“A lot of people can give money to the Red Cross or a hospital, but how many can support bebop artists that are at the very edge of where this music is going?” Stranzl said. “Luke has a brand that has remained true to artistic integrity in a world that doesn’t pay you for doing that.”

Tags: smalls records, west village, jazz, luke kaven, frank hewitt, thomas conrad, jazz times, stereophile, music, economy

Viral video: 'Bacon'd' in SoCal

Tuesday January 13, 2009 8:47 AM By Sean Joseph

Kevin Bacon puts his own spin on getting “Punk’d.” He goes around Venice Beach, Calif., pranking everyone from little girls to old ladies.

Tags: viral video, television, movies, kevin bacon

Bail decision in Madoff case slammed by angry New Yorkers

Monday January 12, 2009 2:12 PM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

Outraged New Yorkers want to know: Why is Bernie Madoff still sitting pretty in his $7 million Upper East Side penthouse instead of behind bars?

“He left a lot of people penniless,” said Sharon Smith of Brooklyn. “He needs to go to jail ... If it had been me, I would be [sent] to jail.”

A federal judge denied a request by prosecutors to revoke Madoff’s $10 million bail and send him to the slammer for mailing out more than $1 million in jewelry to friends and family over the holidays, assets they argue could be used to pay his victims.

Magistrate Judge Ronald L. Ellis said prosecutors did not prove that Madoff — who allegedly swindled $50 billion in a Ponzi scheme — would pose further economic harm to the community or that he is likely to flee. Ellis noted that Madoff, 70, is under house arrest and that his current bail conditions include 24-hour security and an electronic monitoring device.

“He should be in the can right now,” said Joe Vano, 35, of Brooklyn. “He shouldn’t be sitting in his lavish apartment.”

Bernard Madoff leaving court last week. AP file photoAlready, dozens of people have come forward saying they have lost their life savings investing with Madoff. A number of charities also lost millions of dollars in investments, and some may be forced to shut down.

Last week, J. Ezra Merkin, a hedge fund operator who lost billions to Madoff, resigned as chairman of GMAC – the financing arm of General Motors — amid lawsuits from his investors, which include NYU. And one wealthy Madoff client even committed suicide.

“There is a feeling that folks like Bernard Madoff get a different brand of justice than the guy in the street,” said Stephen Weiss, an attorney who represents some of Madoff’s investors.

Madoff’s lawyer, Ira Sorkin, said the bail opinion “speaks for itself and we intend to comply with the judge's order.”

The judge today did order new restrictions: A security firm paid for by Madoff’s wife will inspect his mail and he must give authorities an inventory of all valuables in the $7 million apartment.

Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-Brooklyn/Queens) blasted Ellis’ decision, saying at a news conference outside Madoff’s building on East 64th Street that he can’t be trusted to stay in town.

“If there was ever a case of someone that might have a shoebox under his bed with $20 million and a fake passport in it, Bernard Madoff is such a case,” Weiner said.

Eric Sears, a defense attorney in Manhattan not involved in the case, said Madoff’s money has afforded him advantages many defendants don’t have.

“I represent a lot of people who have done things that haven’t damaged so many people in so many ways that Madoff did and they’re all in jail because they don’t have money,” Sears said. “It’s a money bail system and a system based on money is kind of skewed towards those who have it.”

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

Tags: bernard madoff, crime, economy

Republican leader pushes special election for Clinton seat

Monday January 12, 2009 1:29 PM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

Sen. Hillary Clinton begins her confirmation hearing tomorrow for secretary of state, and it may be just a matter of days before she’s confirmed.

And while there’s already been much speculation about who the governor will choose to replace Clinton in the senate, New York’s assembly minority leader wants to nix the appointment process and instead create a special election to fill the seat.

“We need elections to matter in New York,” said Joshua Fitzpatrick, a spokesman for Assemb. James Tedisco (R-Schenectady), who intends to introduce a bill allowing voters to choose Clinton’s replacement.

“No more accidental public officials,” Fitzpatrick said.

Though Fitzpatrick said Tedisco hopes a bill would pass before Gov. David Paterson makes a selection for Clinton’s seat, that is a virtual impossibility.

Republicans are in the minority in both houses of the legislature and Paterson, like Clinton, is a Democrat. Also, the governor is expected to make the appointment soon after Clinton is confirmed.

Paterson's office would not immediately comment on the bill.

The matter has drawn intense scrutiny since President-elect Barack Obama announced Clinton as his choice to lead the state department.

Paterson has been very tight-lipped about whom he might select but speculation has swirled around Caroline Kennedy. Another possibility is Attorney General Andrew Cuomo.

Fitzpatrick noted that if Cuomo gets the nod, the legislature would choose a replacement for him. In that case, there would be four statewide officeholders who were not elected to their positions: Paterson was elevated to governor after Eliot Spitzer resigned and Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli was chosen by the legislature after Alan Hevesi resigned.

Tags: hillary clinton, gov. david paterson, assemb. james tedisco, albany, secretary of state, politics

Philadelphia: Distinct, but not distant

Monday January 12, 2009 1:08 PM By Lucy Blatter

Isaiah Zager in his Magic Gardens. Photo by C. Purcell for GPTMC

By Jessie Pascoe

Special to amNewYork

Though not exactly popular with Giants fans at the moment, Philadelphia has a distinct culture and deep historical roots, offering a great urban escape that’s only an hour and a half away from New York.

The home of Benjamin Franklin offers everything from authentic cheesesteaks to magic gardens, all without having to spend a single Benjamin.GET CULTURED

The Liberty Bell

Independence National Historic Park, 6th and Market sts.,

nps.gov/inde

Be one of the 2 million tourists who visit the Liberty Bell each year by heading over to Independence National Historic Park. Get there early to avoid the school group rush and make sure to bring small bags and purses — before you see the famous cracked bell, you’ve got to pass through a metal detector.

Magic Gardens

1020 South St., 215-733-0390,

philadelphiasmagicgardens.org

For an alternative cultural fix, walk down South Street to Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens. Featuring the mosaic work of Isaiah Zager, the gardens have become a popular city site ever since being transformed from rundown row houses into glittery works of art.

Beer Week

phillybeerweek.org

They might not teach this in school, but Philadelphia’s relationship to beer is historic (the Declaration of Independence was even drafted in local taverns).

In its second year, Beer Week brings the history, hops and hoopla to area watering holes from March 6 to 15, with notable brewery participants including local favorites Dock Street Brewing Company and Yard Company.

The 10-day festival has something for everyone with tutored tastings to beer-based meals and even a cask ale festival.

Philadelphia Museum of Art

2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, 215-763-8100,

philamuseum.org

The Philadelphia Museum of Art packs enough of a power punch to host exhibits of international renown.

This is largely due to the museum being one of the biggest in the U.S., with a permanent collection spanning the globe. It includes everything from iconic pieces from Asia and Europe to paramount holdings of American decorative arts, sculpture and paintings.

One exhibit not to miss is the upcoming “Cezanne and Beyond.” Set to open in late February, it will showcase 40 watercolors and 20 drawings and will be the only world viewing.

SHOP ’TIL YOU DROP

The Williamsburg of Philadelphia, Northern Liberties, offers local designs at prices unheard of in New York.

Art Star and Gallery

1030 N. 2nd St., 215-238-1557,

artstarphilly.com

Swing by for their crafty designs and rotating exhibits of local artists.

Conspiracy Showroom

910 N. 2nd St., 215-925-2153,

conspiracyshowroom.com

A few blocks down, this shop displays the local accessories and clothing of area designers and the work of its three owner/designers. Check out their Web site for frequent sales and in-store shopping soirees (free booze!).

DINE AND DRINK

Gianna’s Grille

507 S. 6th St., 215-829-4448,

giannasgrille.com

A trip to Philly wouldn’t be complete without a bite (or several) of a juicy cheesesteak. Head to Gianna’s Grille, where extensive meat and veggie-friendly offerings satisfy both dedicated carnivores and strict vegans.

Woody’s

202 S. 13th St., 215-545-1893,

woodysbar.com

Embrace the City of Brotherly Love at Woody’s, Philly’s oldest gay bar in Old City. Featuring multiple levels of boozy bacchanalia, it hosts themed nights from karaoke to trivia.

RX

4443 Spruce St.,

215-222-9590, caferx.com

Start your day off right at this West Philly cafe popular among University of Pennsylvania and Drexel students. Order brioche French toast and try a side of Scrapple: a mid-Atlantic meat-mash born out of the Depression — prime for a culinary comeback.

Tags: philadelphia, philly, liberty bell, magic gardens, beer week, travel

Viral video: Did you remember to use your parking brake today?

Monday January 12, 2009 8:34 AM By Sean Joseph

A pair of security cameras catch this guy running across a parking lot to stop his car before the inevitable crash.

Tags: viral video, television

Theater District businesses feel pinch as Broadway shows close

Sunday January 11, 2009 3:05 PM By Pete Catapano

By amNewYork staff

A slew of Broadway show closings in January have Theater Row businesses worried that their sales will fall with the curtains.

“Everybody is scared,” said Alex Dudgeon, manager of Broadway New York, a chain of memorabilia stores in Times Square.

The Junior’s on West 44th Street has eliminated five servers from its daily rotation since “Spamalot” closed at a neighboring theater earlier this month, said waiter Benjamin Velez.

“December was good, but now it’s really slow,” Velez said.

More than a dozen plays and musicals scheduled their last performances for January, one of the worst months since the stagehand union went on strike in 2007. Nearly half of all Broadway theaters will close their shows, including crowd-pleasers like “Grease” and “Spamalot,” and newer productions such as “13,” which did not sell to expectations.

"Grease" closed last weekOn Sunday, the casts of “All My Sons,” “Gypsy” and “Spamalot” took their last bows — but not without adoring crowds.

“The show is exceptional, but the economy can’t carry it anymore,” said Neil Kirsch, a Long Island theater buff who queued up to see his 51st performance of “Gypsy” yesterday.

About 12 million people bought Broadway show tickets last year, with attendance flat compared to 2007 rates, according to figures from the Broadway League, a national trade associated Area business owners said the January finales brought small surges in traffic.

A crowd of 50 women flocked to Sardi’s restaurant last week to dine and snap pictures with a caricature of Clay Aiken, the outgoing “Spamalot” star, said maitre d’ Ivan Lesica.

Still, even legendary Sardi’s has lost customers this month, especially in the evening hours after shows let out, Lesica said. Last week, the West 44th Street restaurant swapped its usual supper menu of $22 entrées with a more affordable selection of “light fare.”

“(The drop) happens every year at this time, but not as much as now,” Lesica said.

For January, the Times Square Alliance has organized a “Taste Bud Stimulus Package,” a series of promotions at 30 member restaurants. And some Theater Row establishments have pushed their own budget menus to help prevent precipitous declines.

When “Grease” closed earlier this month at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre, the lines for neighboring Trattoria Trecolori went with it, said waiter Mark Johnston, 50. But they’ve managed to attract customers with $14 pasta deals.

“We’re going to suffer, but not like some of the others around here,” Johnston said.

But the slump has forced establishments like Mont Blanc, on West 48th Street, to send its wait staff home earlier than usual during the week.

“We’re still hopeful for the spring,” said waiter Patricio Vallajo, of Mont Blanc, as he folded white cloth napkins in the empty 60-seat restaurant Sunday.

More than 20 Broadway shows scheduled to open by the spring could bring some relief to area businesses.

“Hair” and “West Side Story,” two long-anticipated musicals, have scheduled Broadway runs for March. While musical acts will otherwise be in short supply, plays featuring stars like Will Ferrell, Jane Fonda and Angela Lansbury are also set to debut here in the spring.

But future performances can’t immediately Velez, the waiter. His average daily tips of $200 fell by two-thirds in January.

“It’s brutally bad,” said Velez, 21, as he smoked a cigarette outside.

Broadway Show Closings

Jan. 4

“Boeing-Boeing,” Longacre Theatre

“Dividing the Estate,” Booth Theatre

“Grease,” Brooks Atkinson Theater

“Hairspray,” Neil Simon Theatre

“Irving Berlin’s White Christmas,” Marquis Theatre

“Liza’s at the Palace,” Palace Theatre

“Young Frankenstein,” Hilton Theatre

“Slava’s Snowshow,” Helen Hayes Theatre

“13,” Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre

Jan. 11

“All My Sons,” Gerald Schoenfeld Theater

“Gypsy,” St. James Theatre

“Spamalot,” Shubert Theater

Jan. 18

“Spring Awakening,” Eugene O’ Neill Theatre

Tags: broadway, theater district, grease, hairspray, spamalot, gypsy, spring awakening, sardi's, clay aiken, economy

Giants fans left wondering what went wrong

Sunday January 11, 2009 1:36 PM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

Disappointed Giants fans were left wondering this afternoon what had happened to a season that looked so promising.

“It’s terrible,” said Eddie Nunez, 29, a Giants fan from Flushing, after watching his team go down 23-11 to the rival Philadelphia Eagles in the divisional round of the playoffs. “I was nothing but confident. I put a lot of money on this game.”

Whether the stakes were financial or just emotional, the couple hundred fans who packed into Blondie’s bar on the Upper West Side filed out subdued and perhaps stunned that the season is over.

“I’m so disappointed,” said Sai, 28, of the Upper West Side, who didn’t give his last name. “After winning our division this is ridiculous.”At the Gin Mill on Amsterdam Avenue, a raucous crowd grew silent as the second half wore on. Several fans buried their heads in their hands after the Giants were stopped on a crucial fourth down late in the game.

“We’re in a complete depression,” said Randi Bandman, an Upper West Side resident. “I thought the Eagles were on a roll but I thought the Giants would win.”

Many fans said they were nervous going into the game, with the Eagles having won four of their last five and the Giants – who at one point were 11-1 this season – losing three of four.

“The Eagles had the momentum and they were playing well and the Giants haven’t been,” said Frank Guzman, 36, of Manhattan.

A smattering of Eagles fans at Blondie’s made themselves known with gleeful cheers every time their team made a big play.

“Nothing pleases me more than beating the Giants,” said Brent Regaldi, 32, an Upper West Side resident who grew up in Philadelphia. “I feel like 2008 is a year of destiny for Philadelphia: You have the Phillies coming out of nowhere to win and now you have the Eagles coming out of nowhere.”

Many Giants fans were reminded of their team’s improbable run last year, when they won three road playoff games and beat the undefeated Patriots in the Super Bowl.

“We thought we were going to have back-to-back but those don’t come along very often,” said Anthony D’Inverno, 28, of midtown.

D’Inverno, like many others, said the team looked flat, especially the offense, which didn’t score a touchdown and wasted several scoring chances.

He said next week’s game between the Eagles and the Arizona Cardinals would be a snoozer.

“Philly against Arizona for the NFC championship?” he said. “Are you kidding me?”

Tags: sports, football, giants, fans

Alex Cabot returns to 'Law and Order: SVU'

Sunday January 11, 2009 12:41 PM By Julie Gordon

By Julie Gordon

Could there be a soon end to Michaela McManus' stint as the new assistant district attorney on "Law and Order: Special Victims Unit?" Well, it sure looks that way.

While McManus' character Kim Greyleck is rumored to be on assignment in D.C., a familiar "SVU" face is returning. Former ADA Alexandra Cabot (Stephanie March) is out of the witness protection program and back on the small screen for six episodes starting Feb. 17.

"SVU is like an old flame. Every time I run into it I think, 'Hmmm.....what if?' I look forward to spending some time working with a production that has always been so rewarding for me," March said in a statement.

No word on what will happen to March or McManus after those six episodes.

Tags: law and order: special victims unit, svu, stephanie march, television

'The View' co-hosts take shots at Ann Coulter

Sunday January 11, 2009 12:24 PM By Julie Gordon

Ann Coulter (Getty)

By Julie Gordon

The women of “The View” are seething over the show’s main guest Monday — conservative pundit Ann Coulter.

“Why are you such a b----?” is the question co-host Joy Behar wants to ask Coulter, she said at an event for the New York Times Arts & Leisure Weekend.

Co-host/comedian Whoopi Goldberg took a low blow at Coulter — literally.

“Are you blond on the top and on the bottom?” Goldberg sarcastically said of the question she’d pose to Coulter.

Coulter is on the ABC talk-show to promote her controversial new book “Guilty: Liberal ‘Victims’ and Their Assault on America,” whose second chapter focuses on how most of society’s major problems are the result of single motherhood.Always the diplomat, “View” co-host and executive producer Barbara Walters said Coulter was invited on “The View” to represent a variety of opinions.

On the other end of the guest spectrum is Tom Cruise, who the five “View” co-hosts could not praise enough. Cruise was on the show last Friday to promote his new World War II-era film “Valkyrie,” took photos with and signed autographs for everyone in the audience who wanted one.

Tags: ann coulter, whoopi goldberg, barbara walters, the view, joy behar, entertainment

amNewYork letters to the editor

Sunday January 11, 2009 11:37 AM By Sara Baumberger

City has money for frivolous things

Re “Wedding digs vow to impress,” Jan. 8: With the extreme fiscal woes NYC government is currently experiencing, City Hall announced it spent $12.3 million for the wedding chapel makeover. I guess the powers that be are confirming that it doesn’t matter that you have no job, no money for rent, increased transit fare or food, just go to the wedding chapel. I would like to know when they realized that there was a fiscal crisis. Please do tell.

— Paula Henry, Brooklyn

Thank you, strangers

Everyone seems to write to the editor when they are frustrated or aggravated with what is going on in the world. Here is a bright note; my boyfriend received a receipt from the post office recently indicating that he had received a package. He went to the post office to find a package with no return address containing his wallet, which he had lost in December. Everything was in the wallet down to the last (and only) dollar. Whoever found his wallet dropped the whole thing in a mailbox and the post office delivered it with just a $1.50 in postage due. This wallet touched a lot of hands and in the era of identify theft, etc., it was nice to see that people do the right thing. What a nice way to start 2009 knowing that there are still good people affecting our everyday lives. A big thanks to the person who found his wallet and the post office.

— Dana Padilla, Astoria

Tags: letters to the editor

Bitter Giants fans react to 23-11 loss to the Eagles

Sunday January 11, 2009 11:35 AM By Pete Catapano

(AP Photo)

It's been only a half-hour or so since the Giants were stunned at home by the Eagles 23-11.

That's plenty of time for the Big Blue faithful to share their disgust with the rest of the world. Here's a sampling of Giants' fans reaction from the team's message board.

“The better team won. Period. They smacked us around twice in our own stadium.

Of all the ways to go out, I never thought it would be like this”

“I am crushed. I am bleeding blue right now.”

“this (sic) last few months have been horrible for me. I lose my job, can't find a new one, baby on the way, bills piling up, car is falling apart on me and now the giants are choking against the eagles”

“bring back plax. this team died with him”

“I blame Plaxico for this loss and the previous ones, I mean, since he had those stupid incidents, the team got worse and worse, they (sic) guys seemed a little bit down.”

Tags: giants, sports

Viral video: Tic Tac street performance

Sunday January 11, 2009 8:21 AM By Sean Joseph

Street musicians can be very creative, but this guy beats them all with a flute and drum set made out of Tic Tacs.

Tags: viral video, television, music, tic tacs

More trouble for Atlantic Yards?

Thursday January 8, 2009 2:14 PM By Jason Fink

There may be more trouble for the troubled Atlantic Yards development in downtown Brooklyn, with reports surfacing Thursday that the planned Frank Gehry-designed arena for the Nets might be scrapped.

A spokesman for the developer, Forest City Ratner, denied reports to the The New York Times that Gehry had been removed from the project but said it may be scaled back to save money.

The $1 billion glass-enclosed arena had been the centerpiece of a 22-acre, $4.1 billion development. Site work has been stopped until pending lawsuits are resolved and the developer has said it is shifting focus to rental rather than condo buildings.

Tags: atlantic yards, nets, ratner, development

Coming to your cell phone: Live TV

Thursday January 8, 2009 1:24 PM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

Imagine watching the evening news live as you walk home from work, or catching the final out of the World Series while eating dinner at a fancy restaurant.

That opportunity will come this year, when networks begin beaming live TV to mobile phones, a coalition of broadcasters announced today at the annual Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

Mobile Digital Television will be up and running in New York City before the year is out, according to the Open Mobile Video Coalition, which includes the four major networks as well as PBS and the CW. The coalition is working with LG and Samsung, which have developed the technology. Kenwood is planning to market a device that could show live TV in cars.

“One can imagine people walking down the street not only looking stupid because they’re on their cell phones with the ear pieces but looking stupid because they’re bumping into things while watching TV,” said Jeff Jarvis, a blogger and former TV critic who writes frequently about technology.

Mobile TV would enable people to watch national and local broadcasts live wherever they could get a signal. New devices equipped with the technology would come to market some time this year but it’s also likely chips would be sold for existing gadgets like iPhones, according to an OMVC official, who added it is too early to say how much it would cost consumers.“The real thing that’s going on is ubiquitous computer activity,” Jarvis said. “Phones are now computers and computers are becoming phones.”

New Yorkers had mixed reactions to the prospect of more TV in more places.

“It’s getting ridiculous, it’s too much technology,” said Philip Fusco, 18, of Astoria. “It gets to the point where people should be out doing something, they should be active.”

William Debord, 21, of East New York, wondered whether it would even appeal to most people.

“It’s not even practical,” said Debord. “On the subways there’s no reception anyway”

Jarvis said that because so many TV shows are already available for download, the biggest impact would be for news and sports programming, where watching a broadcast as it is happening is of particular value.

Waldy Cruz, 22, of Bushwick, agreed.

“I could watch sports at work,” he said.

Marlene Naanes contributed to this story

Tags: technology, tv

It's 'hell' for Giants fan in Eagle country

Thursday January 8, 2009 12:41 PM By Ryan Chatelain

Brian Murray, left, attends a Giants-Eagles game with Philadelphia fans.

BY Ryan Chatelain

Philadelphia Eagles fans have pelted Santa Claus with snowballs and cheered when ex-Cowboy Michael Irvin suffered a career-ending spinal cord injury.

So imagine being a fan of a rival team while living and working in the heart of Eagles territory.

Welcome to Brian Murray’s personal hell.

“They’re brutal here,” said Murray, 30, a lifelong Giants fan and Brooklyn native who now lives in a Philly suburb.The Giants will host the Eagles on Sunday in an NFC divisional playoff game. If Philadelphia upsets Big Blue, not only will it be a dejected end of the season for Giants fans, Murray will undoubtedly never hear the end of it from friends, co-workers and even in-laws.

“The Eagles can definitely win, but I think the Giants are going to come out like a pack of rabid dogs and smack them in the mouth,” he said.

Murray, a computer network engineer, moved to Mount Laurel, N.J., four years ago so that his wife could be closer to her family, all of whom are Eagles fans.

He’s since been denied entry to a sports bar for wearing a Ron Dayne jersey, been beaten up outside Lincoln Financial Field and had “what seems like the whole store” at Best Buy chant “a--hole” at him for sporting a Giants cap.

Sean Presner, 26, remembers his first encounter with Murray. When Presner drove up to a movie theater to meet his future brother-in-law, he noticed a man wearing an Eli Manning jersey.

“Sure enough, that was the guy she was with. And we were like, ‘Oh, crap!” said Presner, an Eagles fan.

Murray said he’s had to leave family functions early because he feared heated conversations with his wife’s uncles might escalate into something “that I don’t want to happen.”

Tags: giants, nfl

amNewYork letters to the editor

Thursday January 8, 2009 12:03 PM By Sara Baumberger

Are abstinence programs worth the money?

Upon learning that Mississippi now has the lamentable title of state with the highest teen birth rate, it surprises me to hear that the top three states (also New Mexico and Texas) are predominantly conservative. Is all the time and money focused on abstinence programs. Is worth it?

— George McCook, Woodside

Peace is easy and it starts in your home

Re Prudence Soobrattie’s letter, “Looking at Gaza from the other side,” Jan. 8: Soobrattie answered her own questions by first quoting President-elect Obama’s description of Palestinian terror, and the long list of nonviolent efforts used to get the Palestinians to stop their constant and ongoing reign of terror — to absolutely no effect whatsoever. Living in peace can be as simple as loving one’s children more than hating Israel — the rest is just a question of working out the details.”

— Larry Abramsky, Manhattan

Violence breeds violence

Even if Prudence Soobrattie's complaints about Israel are accurate, she’s implying that the appropriate, justifiable response by the Palestinians to shortages is violence.

Hamas launches an endless stream of rockets at Israel, killing people. Clearly, the Palestinian and their supporters have a deranged and twisted sense of proportion. Palestinians civilians elected Hamas. They watch each rocket launched, and do nothing to stop it. They are not “innocent” victims. Israel is doing the right thing by communicating with them in the only language they really understand: violence.

— Jon Volkel, Patchogue

Tags: letters to the editor

Forecast shows bigger deficits, fewer jobs in city

Thursday January 8, 2009 11:36 AM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

As Wall Street continues its slide, dragging the city’s economy with it, analysts today projected unprecedented deficits that will likely mean more taxes and service cuts over the next year and a half.

A report released by the city’s Independent Budget Office predicted gaps of $7 billion in the fiscal years 2011 and 2012, some 40 percent higher than what Mayor Michael Bloomberg forecast in November.

“The city is looking at further spending reductions and/or tax increases,” said IBO Deputy Director George Sweeting.

The City Council has already approved a 7 percent property tax increase to close the current deficit and the Bloomberg administration has called for slashing the next two police classes, cutting the hours of fire companies and shutting down health clinics. In his November budget plan, the mayor also suggested raising income taxes.

Bloomberg will present a budget to the council on Jan. 30.

“The mayor has continually said that things have unfortunately gotten far

worse since he laid out the budget picture in early November,” said spokesman Marc LaVorgna. “We will have a full update of the city's budget outlook later this month when the mayor presents the preliminary budget.”

The IBO report projects that by the end of 2010, the city will have lost 242,700 jobs from its employment peak in early 2008.

The financial industry is poised to shed over 82,000 jobs, about 17 percent, by 2011, the report said.

Only a quarter of those jobs are expected to come back and the industry will look vastly different when the recession ends.

“The financial industry that emerges from the current crisis is likely to be smaller, less highly leveraged and less profitable,” the report said.

Tags: budget, economy, jobs

Viral video: Bird foul

Thursday January 8, 2009 8:43 AM By Sean Joseph

A reporter on the scene of a bird infestation gets a taste of the action.

Tags: viral video, television

Digital TV transition still causing confusion, surprises and even some outrage

Wednesday January 7, 2009 3:47 PM By Garett Sloane

By Jessica Troiano

Special to amNewYork

A little more than a month away from the digital transition and plenty of confusion remains about who will be affected and how to prepare.

New York City is not immune from the uncertainties and even controversies surrounding the switch to all digital broadcasts starting. Feb. 17.

City leaders have been trying to raise awareness for months about the change, which many say will disproportionately affect the elderly, low-income and non-English speaking people.

“Television is the place they get information, and for the seniors, it’s how they find out what’s going on in the world,” said Councilwoman Gale Brewer. She is the chairwoman of the council’s technology committee and has a new crusade calling on the federal government to pay for more coupons to help consumers switch to digital.

This week the federal government ran out of money for $40 coupons to help consumers buy digital converter boxes. Older television sets that receive signals over the airwaves — not cable or satellite — will need the converters.The Best Buy in Columbus Circle alone is selling about 10 converters a day, according to spokeswoman Crystal Stroupe. Consumers are still confused if they need them or not, and some may even buy them unnecessarily, she said.

The digital converter may not be the only cost for consumers, especially in New York, because the skyscrapers and thick walls in pre-war buildings could require an antenna upgrade.

“If you used to get a station, but the reception wasn’t great, when you switch to digital you may not get that channel at all,” said Joel Kelsey of Consumers Union, an advocacy group.

There are about 350,000 households that receive television over the airwaves, according to Gale Brewer’s office. A test of the digital transition — when broadcasters cut their analog signals for two minutes in October — revealed that about 40,000 households viewing at the time lost their programming.

The test prompted disrupted viewers to call a hotline for information, and another flaw in the system was revealed. Even some cable subscribers, who are not supposed to be affected by the digital switch, lost their signals.

“That means they were still receiving analog signals,” said John Lawson, an executive vice president at ION Media Network, which ran the test. “This was valuable information for the cable providers.”

Whether or not problems have been fixed and more viewers are aware of the transition will be found out Jan. 12 when another test is conducted.

Tags: digital, television, digital transition, fcc, digital converter box, cable, coupons, gale brewer, technology, economy

Hubby demands kidney back from estranged wife

Wednesday January 7, 2009 2:05 PM By Pete Catapano

Richard Batista and Dawnell Batista's wedding photo.

BY JASON FINK

Every divorce lawyer knows breakups can get nasty.

But when one person demands a vital organ – as a Long Island man has done in asking for his wife’s kidney – the matrimonial battle reaches a whole other level.

“It’s left the courtroom and it’s entered the stratosphere of absurdity,” said Raoul Felder, a New York divorce lawyer not involved in the case. “He is going to come off as a moral monster.”

The man is Dr. Richard Batista, 49, who in 2001 donated a kidney to his ailing wife. Yesterday, at a news conference, his attorney, Dominic Barbara, said his client wants it back – or at least its cash equivalent, which he said an expert determined is $1.5 million.“As part of the litigation we are asking for the value of the kidney he gave his wife,” Barbara said. “In theory, we are actually asking for the return of the kidney. But of course he wouldn’t really ask for that.”

Batista said the organ — which he donated to his wife, Dawnell Batista, after she had two failed transplants — was given as a precious gift at a rocky time in their marriage. He said she later had an affair. The two were married in 1990 and the divorce is being heard in Supreme Court in Mineola.

"My first priority was to save her life," Batista said. "The second bonus was to turn the marriage around."

Neither Dawnell Batista, 44, nor her attorney, Douglas Rothkopf, could be reached yesterday.

“I’ve never seen a demand like this,” said Rob Wallack, a New York divorce lawyer. “I don’t think any court has ever seen this.”

Attorneys and medical ethicists say trying to reclaim such a gift would at the very least violate the spirit in which it was given. What’s more, if Batista did actually try to get the organ removed, there’s virtually no chance a judge would order it and no way a responsible doctor would perform the surgery.

“Physicians’ ethics require that they act to benefit patients, not to harm them,” said

Dr. Paul S. Appelbaum, director of the division of psychiatry, law and ethics at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. “No physician could ethically perform such a procedure.”

In a divorce proceeding, a court can only divide “marital property,” said David Gabay, an attorney who runs the Web site New York Divorce Law Blog. It would be hard to put a kidney in that category, he said.

And even if it was considered a gift, Gabay said, returning it is clearly not an option.

“We all went to third grade,” said Gabay. “The rule of ‘no backsies’ generally applies.”

Newsday contributed to this report

Tags: legal, divorce, marriage, zany

Divorcing man wants a piece of his ex — her kidney

Wednesday January 7, 2009 1:39 PM By Jason Fink

Richard Batista at a news conference today at his lawyer's office. Photo by Howard Schnapp/Newsday

By Jason Fink

Every divorce lawyer knows breakups can get nasty.

But when one person demands a vital organ – as a Long Island man has done in asking for his wife’s kidney – the matrimonial battle reaches a whole other level.

“It’s left the courtroom and it’s entered the stratosphere of absurdity,” said Raoul Felder, a New York divorce lawyer not involved in the case. “He is going to come off as a moral monster.”

The man is Dr. Richard Batista, 49, who in 2001 donated a kidney to his ailing wife. Today, at a news conference, his attorney, Dominic Barbara, said his client wants it back – or at least its cash equivalent, which he said an expert determined is $1.5 million.

“As part of the litigation we are asking for the value of the kidney he gave his wife,” Barbara said. “In theory, we are actually asking for the return of the kidney. But of course he wouldn’t really ask for that.”Batista said the organ — which he donated to his wife, Dawnell Batista, after she had two failed transplants — was given as a precious gift at a rocky time in their marriage. He said she later had an affair. The two were married in 1990 and the divorce is being heard in Supreme Court in Mineola.

"My first priority was to save her life," Batista said. "The second bonus was to turn the marriage around."

Neither Dawnell Batista, 44, nor her attorney, Douglas Rothkopf, could be reached.

“I’ve never seen a demand like this,” said Rob Wallack, a New York divorce lawyer. “I don’t think any court has ever seen this.”

Attorneys and medical ethicists say trying to reclaim such a gift would at the very least violate the spirit in which it was given. What’s more, if Batista did actually try to get the organ removed, there’s virtually no chance a judge would order it and no way a responsible doctor would perform the surgery.

“Physicians’ ethics require that they act to benefit patients, not to harm them,” said Dr. Paul S. Appelbaum, director of the division of psychiatry, law and ethics at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. “No physician could ethically perform such a procedure.”

In a divorce proceeding, a court can only divide “marital property,” said David Gabay, an attorney who runs the Web site New York Divorce Law Blog. It would be hard to put a kidney in that category, he said.

And even if it was considered a gift, Gabay said, returning it is clearly not an option.

“We all went to third grade,” said Gabay. “The rule of ‘no backsies’ generally applies.”

Newsday contributed to this report

Tags: court, divorce, zany

Sarah Jessica Parker to move out on Matthew Broderick?

Wednesday January 7, 2009 1:09 PM By Julie Gordon

Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick (Getty)

By Julie Gordon

Well, Star magazine is at it again with the Sarah Jessica Parker/Matthew Broderick breakup biz. Last summer, the mag wrote that Broderick was having an affair; now, Parker allegedly visited a midtown real estate broker to find her own apartment.

“They’re essentially living separate lives,” a source tells Star.

But, really, midtown? Over the summer, SJP told us she loves her West Village neighborhood, even though the “Sex and the City” tour bus goes right down her street (she lives a block from “Carrie’s” pad). And we just can’t picture her giving up her West Village townhouse for the Lincoln Tunnel.

Tags: sarah jessica parker, matthew broderick, sex and the city, entertainment

Henry Alford: Nailing down an old age idea

Wednesday January 7, 2009 12:56 PM By Scott A. Rosenberg

(Photo by RJ Mickelson)

For more with Henry Alford, click here.

Henry Alford is at Barnes & Noble Upper West Side on Thursday at 7 p.m.

By Scott A. Rosenberg

Wisdom is a nebulous term.

“There are nine million cajillion definitions,” says Henry Alford, author of “How to Live: A Search for Wisdom from Old People (While They Are Still on This Earth).” ”I think William James nailed it when he said, ‘Wisdom is knowing what to overlook.’ That gets as close to it. It’s such a big squishy topic that it’s really hard to nail it down into a succinct definition. It’s like saying, ‘What is beauty? What is truth?’”

But that didn’t stop Alford, 47, from his search. For his book, he spoke with more than 200 seniors in an attempt to discern wisdom, including the famous - Edward Albee, Doris "Granny D." Haddock – and regular people, including his mother and stepfather, who become major players in the book.“That turn of events was freakish, unexpected,” Alford says. “It’s so weirdly personal.”

But his family’s story acts as glue holding the book together, flipping between his personal stories with the tales of the other subjects.

Alford was drawn to doing a book about wisdom because he was fascinated by the idea that in this last century, the average life expectancy has gone up three decades. He wanted to look at those extra 30 years – the bonus years.

Through the process of putting the book together, Alford couldn’t believe how frank some of the interviewees were about saying they don’t have much time left.

“I’ve always assumed old people’s irritability and their sense of exigency was a reflection of illness or bodily ills or a sense of entitlement,” Alford says. “No, it turns out some older folks just know they don’t have much [time?] and damn it they want to get to the head of the line.”

So when does wisdom arrive? Do people suddenly become wise when their social security check arrives? Alford says it depends.

“Sometimes wisdom only comes after a period of reflection and other times it’s immediate. I think that the lessons that we learn in life 95 percent of the times are very obvious things. It’s simply that previously they never meant anything to any of us, or they didn’t resonate for us. What’s the different between a cliché and a classic? On the face of it, both of those things are exactly the same. It’s just somehow, sometimes the specific circumstances reveal the essential truth in a way that is not platitudinous and that’s not cliché for whatever reason.”

The youthful appeal of wisdom

“How to Live” author Henry Alford is 47 years old, still 20-plus years away from his wiser years. But, had he had written this book in 20 years, on the cusp of 70, would it have been any different?

“Certainly it would be more authoritative,” he says. “It’s hard to say. I hope in 20 years my typing skills will have improved and I think weirdly, the topic will be less interesting to me in 20 years because I’ll be very close to being in that group. It won’t seem as exotic.”

He says that the path to discover wisdom was like traveling for him.

“Even if I was just going up to TriBeCa to talk to Edward Albee, it feels like I’m trying to enter someone else’s world,” he says.

Tags: henry alford, how to live, edward albee, granny d, books

amNewYork letters to the editor

Wednesday January 7, 2009 12:25 PM By Sara Baumberger

Jewish mayor wouldn’t be safe with Hamas

Re Fardad Firooznia’s letter, “Did you forget about Palestine, Mr. Mayor?” Jan. 7: Israel’s actions are against the terrorist group Hamas — not the civilian Palestinian people. The attacks in Gaza are the result of Hamas’ unjustified rocket and missile attacks against Israel. Does Firooznia think it’s smart for the Jewish mayor to visit Gaza and risk being taken hostage or murdered by anti-Semitic militants? Does he really think Hamas leaders would have welcomed him?

— Mike Den, Manhattan

Looking at Gaza from the other side

President-elect Obama said, “If somebody was sending rockets into my house, where my two daughters sleep at night, I’m going to do everything in my power to stop that.” But what if somebody curtailed the amount of gas available for heat, cooking food and fueling power plants? What if your daughters had to suffer from cold and dark resulting from blackouts? What if you wanted to leave but you were forbidden to travel? What if you wanted others to know about your life but foreign journalists were banned?

— Prudence Soobrattie, Bronx

Fewer drinks, less sex?

Re “Sex on the rocks,” Jan. 6: The article highlights the health risks associated with promiscuous behavior caused by binge drinking. However, the article neglects to assess the corresponding risks one encounters while abstaining from binge drinking, namely having sex with fewer people.

— Dorian Anderson, Manhattan

Tags: letters to the editor

Viral video: Tow truck mishap

Wednesday January 7, 2009 8:16 AM By Sean Joseph

Next time your car gets towed, make sure to give the driver enough cash to pay the extra toll.

Tags: viral video, television

'The Real World: Brooklyn': The inside scoop

Tuesday January 6, 2009 6:37 PM By Julie Gordon

"The Real World: Brooklyn" cast, from left to right, Devyn (holding dog Brooklyn), Sarah, Chet, Ryan, Baya, Katelyn, Scott and J.D. (RJ Mickelson/amNY)

By Julie Gordon

After months of outrage among Brooklyn bars, speculation and talk, "The Real World: Brooklyn" is finally premiering (Wednesday at 10 p.m. on MTV).

amNewYork recently talked to the eight castmembers and took a tour of the giant Red Hook loft the roommates shared (and got completely lost in the relatively isolated neighborhood where it stands).

Click here to read interviews with the crew and see their photos, plus take a virtual tour of the incredible space the Real Worlders called home.

Click here to read about which roommates are staying in New York — and who is living together in Stuyvesant Town!

Click here to read a Q&A with the executive producer about why MTV chose Brooklyn.

Tags: real world, real world: brooklyn, red hook, entertainment

Mayor's office paying big bucks to staffers

Tuesday January 6, 2009 2:56 PM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

Even as New Yorkers are facing the possibility of a smaller police force and reduced fire services, the mayor’s office is boasting some of the highest salaries of any city agency, with nearly one in five of its staffers pulling in at least $100,000 a year.

At $71,626, Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s office pays one of the highest average salary of any major department, according to a government watchdog, the Empire Center for New York State Policy, which yesterday posted online a database of city workers’ pay.

“What would be surprising is if in one year — when the situation gets dire, as it’s supposed to — their salaries are still that high,” said Lorenzo Deras, 43, of midtown.

Currently, the city spends $24 billion — including health care and pension costs — on personnel, nearly half its $60 billion budget.

The billionaire Bloomberg, who makes $1 a year, has already asked all city departments to cut 7.5 percent from their budgets and may seek another 7 percent. He has proposed drastically reducing the next two police classes, closing health clinics and scaling back the hours of some fire companies.

However, some wonder if slashing salaries — including the six figure ones — should also be considered.

“You can’t reduce the budget meaningfully without reducing payroll,” said Councilman David Yassky (D-Brooklyn). “The entire city budget has gotten too big for the economy that we now have.”

A spokesman for the mayor, Marc LaVorgna, said the salaries in his office are deserved. “The mayor’s office, unlike other city agencies, is mostly managers who are responsible for overseeing all facets of city government,” he said.

Bloomberg has frozen manager pay increases for this year and vowed to cut his office’s nearly 600-member staff by 10 percent in the next 18 months.“They’ll lower the salaries, but only to an extent,” said a skeptical Brendon Soodeen, 19, of Queens.

During the flush years, the city payroll has ballooned. The number of full-time city workers as of June 2008 was just over 311,000, up from about 250,000 in 1999, the Wall Street Journal has reported. In total, the Empire Center said there were 427,759 full- and part-time employees — equal to about 5 percent of the city’s total population and larger than the populations of Miami or Minneapolis.

Among the other big spenders in the city are the public advocate’s office, where six out of 41 workers make more than $100,000 a year and the City Council, where 118 out of 909 – or 14 percent – clear that much.

The salary figures, provided by the city to Empire Center, represent the payroll as of June 30, 2008 and do not include overtime earnings.

Emily Ngo contributed to this report.

Tags: city hall, mayor michael bloomberg, city hall dispatch

Survey: No. 2 train is still average

Tuesday January 6, 2009 12:53 PM By Marlene Naanes

(Newsday/Audrey C. Tiernan)

The No. 2 subway line is the same crowded ride this year as it was last year, according to a survey released yesterday.

Riders gave the line a C this year, the same grade it earned last year.

They judged the line in 21 areas and credited the No. 2 for lack of graffiti, availability of MetroCard machines and easy-to-use turnstiles.

They gave the No. 2 the lowest grade for crowding during rush hour, which was also riders' top concern for improvement.

(Marlene Naanes)

Tags: transit, train, report card, 2

MTA contract talks stall

Tuesday January 6, 2009 12:51 PM By Marlene Naanes

The MTA and the transit workers union reached an impasse during contract negotiations and will enter into arbitration, MTA and union officials said yesterday.

The two sides have been working for months toward an agreement for a contract that would begin on Jan. 16, officials said. Neither would say how successful negotiations have been or what issues are left unresolved, but the MTA said in a statement the impasse stemmed from “complications associated with today’s current economic climate.”

During contract negotiations in 2005, the union called an illegal strike, which crippled the transit system for three days.

(Marlene Naanes)

Tags: transit, union, mta, contract

amNewYork letters to the editor

Tuesday January 6, 2009 12:00 PM By Sara Baumberger

Did you forget about Palestine, Mr. Mayor?

How presumptuous of the mayor to express his unconditional and unequivocal support for Israel’s aggressions in Gaza and actions against the Palestinian people in his official capacity as the mayor of the city of New York and on behalf of all of its citizens. While the spokesman for the mayor has said “the mayor represents people who sympathize with both sides,” the mayor’s actions speak much louder and show that he only represents the pro-Israeli lobby. If he truly represented all his constituents, he would have also visited Gaza and would have condemned Israel’s aggression in Gaza as well.

— Fardad Firooznia, Sparta, N.J.

Israel is suffering, too

I am surprised how you report about the military action Israel is conducting in Gaza. You show Gazans as an innocent population offended by cruel Israelis. You have never shown that Israel was forced to protect its civilians. You don’t mention that Israel started military action as self-defense. You as mass media must present real situations and not discriminate by your prejudice against Israel.

— Alex Litvak, Brooklyn

Accidental shooting should be prosecuted

Re “Hunter pleads not guilty to accidental shooting,” Jan. 5: I’ll be expecting charges for Vice President Cheney any day now.

— LaTanya Hagler, Brooklyn

Tags: letters to the editor

Viral video: Darth Vader prank

Tuesday January 6, 2009 8:44 AM By Sean Joseph

A prankster dressed as Darth Vader joined a procession of Lutheran clergy in Iceland, and his costume almost fit in.

Tags: viral video, television, movies, star wars, religion, iceland

Funky Flatbush store closes its doors

Tuesday January 6, 2009 8:13 AM By Emily Ngo

Hekima Hapa, left, and Ngozi Odita dress a model for a fashion show that the boutique owners hosted in November at the Brooklyn Masonic Temple in Fort Greene. (Jefferson Siegel)

A huge thanks to Harriet's Alter Ego for re-energizing the Park Slope/Prospect Heights stretch of Flatbush Avenue with its offbeat fashions. But alas, it has become the latest victim of the "very sick" (President-elect Barack Obama's words) economy. Snap up the boutique's trends for as little as $20 or $30 before it closes its doors on Jan. 10.

-- Emily Ngo

Tags: shopping, boutiques, brooklyn, park slope, trends, economy

Popeyes adapts to its Chinatown environs

Tuesday January 6, 2009 7:55 AM By Rolando Pujol

Jefferson Siegel sends along this image of a Popeyes Chicken shop on Delancey Street near Essex Street. Notice the sign. Jefferson asks: What would Mao say?

Tags: popeye's chicken, chinatown, signs, retail, restaurants, neighborhoods, manhattan, development, architecture, advertising

Report: alcohol fuels multiple sex partners, STDs

Monday January 5, 2009 2:41 PM By Marlene Naanes

By Marlene Naanes and Emily Ngo

Michelangelo Franqui learned about the dangers of binge drinking last year when he woke up with his shins aching.

“My friends had to drag me up the stairs because I was passed out,” said Franqui, a 22-year-old from Corona, Queens, who has since sworn off heavy drinking.

And so Franqui wasn’t surprised at a city health department report released yesterday detailing just how dangerous binge drinking can be for New Yorkers — particularly when it comes to sex.

According to the report, heavy drinkers in the city tend to have more sex partners and are more likely to get sexually transmitted diseases. It’s a finding that common sense has long dictated: If you drink too much, you make poor decisions, including ones in bed.

“Everyone knows that moment when you wake up and regret what you’ve done,” Franqui said. “You just look at the person next to you in bed and regret it.”

According to the report, 15 percent of adult New Yorkers binge drink — defined as having five or more drinks in one sitting — at least once a month. In fact, a binge drinker is three times more likely than a nondrinker to have two to four sex partners in the past year, according to the health survey. Binge drinking men who have sex with other men are particularly at risk, doubling their likelihood of having five or more sex partners in the past year.“Some people think sex and alcohol mix well because alcohol lowers sexual inhibition,” said Sari Locker, sex educator who teaches adolescent psychology at Columbia University. “In reality, mixing sex and alcohol leads to irresponsible behavior.”

People who are influenced by alcohol are more likely to sleep with people they otherwise wouldn’t and use condoms incorrectly, Locker said.

Although most New York City teens don’t drink, drinking youngsters are more than twice as likely to become pregnant or get someone pregnant and even likelier than that to have multiple sex partners, the study showed. Teens who drink or use drugs before sex are also less likely to use condoms.

“With rates of syphilis rising, as well as HIV among young [men who have sex with men], it is important to look at how drinking may be contributing to the problem,” said city health commissioner Dr. Thomas Frieden.

The health department suggested men limit themselves to no more than two drinks a day and women should have no more than one to avoid health risks, including HIV and sexually transmitted diseases. New Yorkers yesterday did not pledge to put down their pints, but some said pointing out the consequences of binge drinking would help.

“Just be smart about not putting yourself in the position where you end up with something you’ll never get rid of,” said Dan Vigil, 30, of Brooklyn.

Tags: sex, alcohol, health

New York City sets sights on Bollywood

Monday January 5, 2009 2:41 PM By Garett Sloane

Mumbai's Bollywood is a fast-growing industry and New York City hopes to capitalize on some of that success. (Getty)

By Rebecca Wolfson

Special to amNewYork

New York is on a blitz for Bollywood bucks, but faces plenty of competition from neighboring cities also looking to woo the booming Indian film market.

In October, Katherine Oliver, the commissioner of the Mayor’s Office of Film, Theatre and Broadcasting, was in Mumbai to meet with Bollywood leaders, a trip that coincided with the opening of a city tourism bureau there.

“We thought it would be good to learn more about this growing market and bring their projects to our city,” Oliver said. Unfortunately for Oliver, Philadelphia’s film office is also on a mission to attract Indian films, as are a number of cities worldwide.In 2008, eight Bollywood film productions came to New York. None are yet scheduled to film here this year, but crews apply for permits within weeks of filming so that should change, according to the city’s film office.

The Bollywood box office brings in about $3 billion a year — a fraction of Hollywood — but the Indian industry is growing at almost 25 percent a year, according to Anadil Hosein, who has produced several Bollywood films shot in the city during the past five years.

In a sign of the tough competition, Philadelphia recently recruited a Bollywood movie that is all about New York — and named for it. “New York” is set to be released this month, and is about three Muslim friends caught up in the aftermath of 9/11. The trailer of the movie draws on the imagery of the Twin Towers and some sequences were shot at familiar New York locales. However, a lot of the scenes were also filmed in Philly.

“[The producers] were looking for alternative places to film,” said Sharon Pinkenson, executive director of the Greater Philadelphia Film Office. “What they like about Philadelphia is that it is a real urban metropolis with skyscrapers, and could easily double for New York.”

Bollywood audiences, however, don’t identify with Philadelphia like they do with New York, according to Hosein.

“It’s sort of the pinnacle of every Bollywood director’s dream — to make a quintessential New York film,” she said.

Whether or not they’ll actually film here, however, depends on the city’s efforts. Television, film and commercial production in the city is a $5 billion industry that supports 4,000 ancillary businesses and employs 100,000 New Yorkers, Oliver said. The film office works to attract filmmakers by offering free permits, free police assistance, tax incentives and discounts at local businesses.

New York is in a good position to attract more Indian filmmakers, Hosein said.

One of the biggest Bollywood stars, Shah Rukh Kahn, spends a lot of time here, Hosein said. The city’s film office likes to tout the fact that the movies “Kal Ho Naa Ho” and “Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna,” both filmed here, are among the 25 highest grossing productions in India during the last decade.

“Bollywood is already very much a part of the New York film language,” she said. “It’s become a second home to many Bollywood stars and personalities.”

Tags: bollywood, shah rukh kahn, “kal ho naa ho”, “kabhi alvida naa kehna”, mayor’s office of film theatre and broadcasting, katherine oliver, anadil hosein, hollywood, mumbai, new york city, movies, entertainment, economy

Viral video: Rejected at center court

Monday January 5, 2009 8:59 AM By Sean Joseph

This guy has the courage to propose to his girlfriend on the court during a Houston Rockets game and then gets his heart broken in front of the crowd, mascot and basketball players.

Tags: viral video, television, sports, houston rockets

Daydream yogurt shop brings new flavors to city

Sunday January 4, 2009 3:42 PM By Garett Sloane

Toppings at Daydream yogurt shop are one-of-a-kind concoctions. (Alison Joyce)

By Garett Sloane

Somewhere in Gwen Butler’s mind there is a cranberry doused in Grand Marnier. She thinks about passion-fruit caviar and how the juice-infused capsules would pop on the tongue.

Butler is obsessed with the next topping she might offer at her newly opened Daydream frozen yogurt parlor in the East Village.

“Sometimes you have to tell her when to stop,” says Gregori Pena, the chef at Daydream who is charged with executing Butler’s fantasies, which sometimes come to him via text message at 3:30 in the morning with missives like: “How about soaking the Craisins in a Grand Marnier syrup? To plump them.”

To stand out in the crowded fro-yo market, Butler developed the chef-driven yogurt concept that turns the simple craze into something more gourmet.She also designed the store to resemble an old-fashioned New England ice cream parlor with a mural of the sky on the ceiling and Italian blue celeste marble for the tabletops.

“Whatever she does, we’re not just OK with it, we’re really good with it,” says Sam Mullokando, who with his brother, John, put up the money for Daydream while Butler runs the shop as an equal partner.

Butler recruited Pena, who was a chef at Irving Mills where they both worked a couple years ago. She brought her expertise in restaurants to frozen yogurt.

“We don’t want anyone to compare us with anyone else. We want to be completely different,” Butler says.

Pena spends hours in the kitchen — equipped with only an oven and a hot plate — creating the complex crunchy, berry, syrupy, nutty mixes.

“My whole life is surrounded by food,” he says. “I’m always thinking how things can be better.”

When asked how far they can push the frozen yogurt boundaries, Butler and Pena start musing about molecular gastronomy, weights and measures, the perfect bite.

Customers at the weeks-old yogurt parlor are giving high praises. Some people want to know the secret recipes and others want to invest in franchises, Butler says.

Mykwain Gainey, an NYU film student, finds the yogurt shop while looking for a place to escape the snow on this, the last day of the year.

“It looked almost very surreal, very dreamy,” he says. He’s not even a big yogurt lover, but after finishing a cup of banana topped with rum-butter crunch and caramel, he’ll be back, he says.

Tags: daydream, frozen yogurt, fro-yo, gwen butler, gregori pena, sam mullokando, john mullokando, east village, small business, manhattan, food, economy

Special election set for Feb. 24

Sunday January 4, 2009 1:51 PM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

Voters in Queens and Staten Island head back to the polls next month for special elections to fill three vacant city council seats.

An election will be held Feb. 24 for seats that were held by Joseph Addabbo (D-Howard Beach), Hiram Monserrate (D-East Elmhurst) and Michael McMahon (D-Staten Island).

Addabbo and Monserrate were elected to the state Senate while McMahon was elected to the House.

The Feb. 24 contest will be non-partisan. Regular primaries and general elections for four-year terms will be held in the fall.

The winners of next month’s election will serve until Dec. 31.

Tags: city council, elections, joseph addabbo, hiram monserrate, michael mcmahon, politics

John Travolta, wife, mourn son's death

Sunday January 4, 2009 1:12 PM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

A “heartbroken” John Travolta and his wife, Kelly Preston, broke their silence today, two days after the sudden death of their teen-age son, Jett, expressing gratitude for an outpouring of support.

“Jett was the most wonderful son that two parents could ever ask for and lit up the lives of everyone he encountered,” the couple said in a statement. “We are heartbroken that our time with him was so brief. We will cherish the time we had with him for the rest of our lives.”

The Hollywood couple remained holed up in their townhouse at the Old Bahama Bay on Grand Bahama Island, where the 16-year-old was found dead Friday morning.

Officials have said that Jett apparently suffered a seizure, collapsed and hit his head on the bathtub.An autopsy is scheduled for tomorrow and the Travoltas plan to fly the body to Florida, where they have a home, as early as Tuesday for burial.

Controversy continued to surround the boy’s death, with the family and the police disagreeing about the timeline of events and accusations flying over the Travoltas’ treatment of their son in light of their belief in Scientology.

Family lawyers told TMZ.com today that Jett had suffered from seizures in the past and, contrary to some reports, had taken medicine to control them. However, the Travoltas took him off the meds, in consultation with a neurosurgeon, because they ceased to be effective, the lawyers said.

Meanwhile, police in the Bahamas said Jett’s body might have been in the townhouse bathroom for hours before he was found around 10 a.m. Friday, but Travolta’s lawyers disputed that yesterday, according to TMZ.

The death is not being investigated as a crime but the police are handling it because of the high-profile nature of the people involved, authorities told TMZ.

Because of a disability, Jett was unable to communicate well and had a baby monitor in his room as well as wind chimes on the bathroom door, the Web site reported.

Critics of the couple have long said Jett showed signs of autism — which is not recognized by Scientology — but the Travoltas maintained his condition was a result of a childhood bout with Kawasaki Syndrome, an illness that leads to inflamed blood vessels in young children.

Preston blamed household cleaners and fertilizers, and said that a detoxification program based on teachings from Scientology helped improve his health, according to People magazine.

Tags: john travolta

Bloomberg, in Israel, shows support for Gaza strikes

Sunday January 4, 2009 11:46 AM By Jason Fink

Mayor Michael Bloomberg stands next to remains of rockets, fired from the Gaza Strip, displayed at the police station in Sderot. AP photo by Ariel Schalit

By Jason Fink

Mayor Michael Bloomberg made a surprise visit to Israel today, where he expressed unequivocal support for the nation’s military action in Gaza and had a close call with an incoming rocket.

Traveling with Police Commissioner Ray Kelly and Rep. Gary Ackerman (D-Bayside), Bloomberg met with top Israeli officials as well as New Yorkers living in the town of Ashkelon. While touring a military building in Sderot, near the Gaza border, the mayor’s party was rushed to a shelter when a missile warning sounded. No one in the mayor’s party was hurt as rockets landed about a mile away.

Bloomberg was forceful in his defense of Israel, which yesterday moved ground forces into Gaza after days of air assaults, which the government says were a response to rocket attacks by Hamas.

“Governments have a responsibility to protect their citizens,” Bloomberg told CNN. “In New York City we would do nothing less than use all of our resources to keep you safe.

Arab and Muslim organizations condemned the remarks, accusing Bloomberg of ignoring the more than 500 killed in Gaza since the Israeli strikes began nine days ago.“It’s as if there are no Muslims in New York, there are no Arabs in New York,” said Ibrahim Hooper, a spokesman for the Council on American-Islamic Relations. “Is he the mayor of all of New York or is he only the mayor of the most extreme elements of the pro-Israel lobby?”

Ghazi Khankan, a spokesman for the New York chapter of the American Muslim Alliance, said Bloomberg “should be wise enough to realize there is no military solution.”

A spokesman for Bloomberg said he represents people who sympathize with both sides. The mayor also blamed Hamas for civilian deaths in Gaza, saying the group puts the population at risk.

Morton Klein, president of the New York-based Zionist Organization of America, praised Bloomberg’s trip.

“In light of the fact that the United Nations, the European Union and the Arab world are all criticizing Israel, I think it is very important that a mayor of a major city in America goes to Israel to express his support,” Klein said. “Both morally and politically this is a wise move.”

The Associated Press contributed to this story

Tags: mayor michael bloomber, israel, gaza, palestinians, city hall dispatch

amNewYork letters to the editor

Sunday January 4, 2009 11:13 AM By Sara Baumberger

Rick Warren shouldn’t give invocation at inauguration

Barack Obama’s civil rights blunder stands unchallenged by the rule of law. With no apology or change of heart by Obama, he invited Pastor Rick Warren, whose ministry preaches against equality before the law for gays and others under the guise of religiosity to give the invocation at Obama’s inauguration. Besides being yet another glaring argument for the principle that religion should be separated from government, Obama’s stance that he may legitimize and empower religious bigots by inviting the apostle of anti-gay bigotry is a giant step backward for civil rights and egalitarianism.

— Michael Meyers, executive director, New York Civil Rights Coalition, Manhattan

Israel and world news coverage is lopsided

Re “War to the bitter end,” Dec. 30: A day after you devoted half a page on Gaza, while allocating no more than 30 words to the killing of dozens of women and children in Afghanistan and totally ignoring a similar killing in Iraq, you devote a third of a page to state that Israel is still attacking Gaza, including a photo of Palestinians observing an explosion, then you allocate 30 words in the briefs to report the massacre of 180 innocent people in the Congo who were seeking refuge in a church. Either you consider that only deaths caused by Israel are newsworthy or you want to focus solely on Israel. One can’t help but come to the conclusion that you have your own agenda.

— Jacques Hakim, Manhattan

MTA, ATM: Opposites in more ways than one

We all know what an “ATM” is. It is just “MTA” backward. The only difference is that an “ATM” gives you money and the “MTA” just continues to take it away tenfold.

— Nancy Miller,Glendale

Tags: letters to the editor

New Yorkers sticking to their vices

Sunday January 4, 2009 10:33 AM By Emily Ngo

By Emily Ngo

At Twins Pub in midtown, there is no sign of the economic downturn. Bill “The Doctor” Leary is doling out beers and smiles just as he always has.

“People are out, being festive, drinking like always,” said Leary, a bartender at the pub.

Alcohol, alongside other vices like tobacco and gambling, is historically recession-resilient. As other sectors crumbled, their sales in New York have held steady, even increasing in some cases.

“I guess in hard times, people turn to that,” said Twins Pub patron Barry Sweeney, 50, who smokes and drinks despite the financial strain. “I could be saving $20 a day.”

More than 80 percent of American consumers spent the same amount or more on booze in 2008 compared to the previous year, according a Nielsen Company survey, which calls them “an affordable luxury.” Cheaper drinks are faring best. Value wine sales (those costing less than $9) increased 5.3 percent in the last quarter of 2008, Nielsen reported.

Some New York revelers are hardly opening their wallets at all. Traffic at MyOpenBar.com spiked to 100,000 visits in December, doubling since the previous year.“Everyone is just crazy about saving money and cutting down their going-out budgets,” said Seva Granik, president of the Web site, which lists the best drinking deals in the city. “The increases that we’ve been seeing are so dramatic that we can’t attribute it to anything but the economy.”

The state lottery, too, seems solid, even as gambling struggles at the national level. In New York, sales of Mega Millions, scratch-offs and similar games increased by 1.4 percent in the second half of 2008 compared to the previous year, while video lottery sales — like those at Empire City at Yonkers Raceway — jumped 13.7 percent.

“Overall, we’re hanging in there in a difficult economy,” said New York Lottery spokesman John Charleson.

As Americans continue to search for ways to limit their spending, many smokers still don’t consider cigarettes a splurge, especially when they’re purported to relieve stress.

Tobacco behemoth Phillip Morris International, which manufactures Marlboro cigarettes, saw a 20 percent jump in profits, according to its most recent report.

New York cigarette taxes are among the highest in the nation, but the cost hasn’t driven everyone away.

“It’s hard out there, yes, but sales are fine,” said an employee at the Corner Smoke Shop in Turtle Bay who did not want to be identified. “We’re doing just fine.”

Tags: economy, smoking, drinking, recession, vices, statistics

Viral video: Two minutes of motivation

Sunday January 4, 2009 8:44 AM By Sean Joseph

If you need some motivation, this video compiles 40 of the most inspirational moments in cinematic history into a two-minute clip — from “Braveheart” to “Rocky.”

Tags: viral video, television, movies, music, sports, entertainment

In a rough economy, to divorce or not to divorce?

Thursday January 1, 2009 1:46 PM By Marlene Naanes

(Photo by Jefferson Siegel)

By Marlene Naanes

It’s not love — but rather money — that’s keeping Milton Sandoval and his wife married.

The tough economy is increasingly making it harder for many New Yorkers like Sandoval to afford a divorce, experts said. Couples are finding they cannot finance separate households with the loss of a job, reduced income or increased cost of living.

“You just don’t want to be divorced, and then you don’t have any more money,” said Sandoval, 30, a waiter who is living with his parents in the Bronx in order to save enough to divorce his wife of four years.

Sandoval said that he has been forced to take a second job in medical billing because the poor economy has drastically driven down his tips, typically the heart of a waiter’s income.

Couples “are stuck and they don’t like it,” said Karen Zager, a Manhattan psychologist who specializes in parenting and relationship issues. “They’re living together unhappily and fighting, which was driving them apart in the first place.”

“These are harsh measures for harsh times,” said Zager, who is counseling people on how to live amicably with their spouse until they can divorce.As with all things involving money, there is a disparity between the rich and everyone else, said divorce lawyers and marriage counselors. While many New Yorkers are forced to stay together, the wealthy are seeing the downcast economy as a ticket out of an unhappy alliance.

Spouses are finding less incentive to stay in a marriage when the money’s gone, according to Alton Abramowitz, a Manhattan matrimonial attorney whose firm tends to represent clients with upper middle class incomes.

“[They think] I put up with a lot of crap when times were good, when we had a lot of money, but now I don’t have to put up with it anymore,” Abramowitz said.

“Then you have the other side of the coin where [they think] I used to be worth a lot of money and I’ve been unhappy for years. ... My net worth is down, but I know I’m going to come back so now’s a good time to get out,” said Abramowitz, who added that his firm has seen an increase in business in the last couple of months.

Even people who can afford a divorce are finding that the tough times are adding complications. With the housing slump, people do not know what their apartment is worth, and spousal and child support agreements are constantly being renegotiated as people are laid off or find themselves without bonuses.

“It’s all playing the numbers game,” said Manhattan divorce attorney Eleanor Alter.

Tags: economy

Baby girl is city's first of 2009

Thursday January 1, 2009 1:07 PM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

Grace Pak entered the world a mini-celebrity this morning, becoming New York City’s first baby of 2009 and scoring a hospital visit from Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

Born nine minutes after midnight at New York Hospital of Queens, the six-pound-three-ounce Grace spent her first morning basking in the spotlight of TV cameras.

“She did it,” her father, Daniel Pak, told reporters. “I'm very happy.”

She is the first girl in her family, with three older brothers.Coming in a close second and also drawing a mayoral appearance was Zenia Hussain, born at Flushing Hospital at 10 minutes after midnight. The seven-pound-13-ounce baby is also the first girl for her parents after two boys.

“Our family is complete,” said proud papa Soheel Hussain.

Bloomberg greeted his new constituents in what has become a New Year’s tradition and declared them both the first in the city.

“This could be another mayor of the city of New York,” he told Grace’s parents. “We haven't had a female mayor yet, so why not this one? Though I did say the same thing to the other parents I just visited. Their daughter will be running against your daughter for mayor.”

Tags: new year's, baby, holiday traditions

What New Yorkers were asking about in 2008

Thursday January 1, 2009 11:57 AM By Rolando Pujol

Ask.com shared with Urbanite dozens of top-searched 2008 queries in New York that address the most random, most embarrassing, most creepy, and most concerning aspects of city life. Here are 10 of the more interesting bits:

Is it illegal to spit on someone in NY?

Who is the Naked Cowboy?

How do I remove auto dealership decals?

Are M-80s illegal in NY?

How do I block my phone number?

Is it illegal to photocopy currency?

How do I induce labor naturally?

Is it illegal to street race in NY?

How can I stalk someone?

How do I pass a polygraph?

-- Aline Reynolds

Tags: zany, stuff that's cool

Man shot three times walks into Queens hospital, cops say

Thursday January 1, 2009 11:32 AM By Jason Fink

By Jason Fink

A man in Queens walked into Elmhurst Hospital early this morning after being shot three times, police said.

The man, who was not identified, was still being treated nearly 12 hours after the shooting, which happened around 4 a.m., according to police, who provided no details about the incident.

A published report said the man was shot outside a bar in Corona and then walked nearly two miles to the hospital.

A police official said the man had been uncooperative and that police were waiting at the hospital today for a chance to interview him. Police said his condition deteriorated in the hours after the shooting.

No arrests have been made

Tags: shooting, queens, crime

Trash bash: New Year's party brings tons of garbage

Thursday January 1, 2009 10:21 AM By Jason Fink

Sanitation workers clean up trash in Times Square this morning. AP photo

By The Associated Press

One million revelers packed into Times Square plus a ton of confetti and countless noisemakers equals a whole lot of garbage - about 40 tons, according to the city Department of Sanitation.

Cleanup crews hit the streets shortly after midnight today following the 2009 ball drop. Sanitation spokesman Keith Mellis said 163 people worked until 8 a.m. to sweep up the party trash, and a new shift started at 11 a.m. to tidy the area.

Because of the wind - nearly 25 mph gusts throughout the city - the department wasn't quite sure how much trash was strewn about, but Mellis expected a little more than last year's 40 tons. The Times Square Alliance, which puts on the event, said about 1 million people attended.

The biggest cleanup challenge is shooing away the massive crowd so crews can begin work, Sanitation Commissioner John J. Doherty said.

"It takes a while," he said. "Last night was a windy night. There's probably confetti as far as the East River."

Mayor Michael Bloomberg was out early today praising the department's work and expressing optimism about 2009 despite the economic gloom of 2008.

"There were an awful lot of good things that took place in 2008," he said. "Fewer people went to bed hungry, fewer people slept without a roof over their head, democracy continues to work in this country."

Tags: holiday traditions

Viral video: Mountain bike crash

Thursday January 1, 2009 7:42 AM By Sean Joseph

This is why you wear a helmet.

Tags: viral video, television, mountain bike, sports